Concern mounts over slow-moving, planetary-scale ‘kelvin’ wave heading for California
Scientists are tracking a planetary-scale 'kelvin wave' moving across the Pacific that could raise sea levels along the California coast by up to a foot. This phenomenon is being exacerbated by a strong El Niño event, increasing the risk of flooding.
Why it matters
Understanding large-scale oceanographic shifts is essential for coastal infrastructure planning and disaster preparedness in the face of climate change.
A lifeguard keeps watch along a closed boardwalk as a wave crashes over a seawall protecting homes in Long Beach, California, on 7 September. A lifeguard keeps watch along a closed boardwalk as a wave crashes over a seawall protecting homes in Long Beach, California, on 7 September. California Concern mounts over slow-moving, planetary-scale ‘kelvin’ wave heading for California The ocean phenomenon could raise sea levels by up to a foot as El Niño keeps warm water trapped along the coast
Prefer the Guardian on Google Concerns are mounting about an ocean phenomenon known as a kelvin wave that could raise sea levels along the California coastline by up to a foot, as scientists say El Niño is supercharging the threat of storm surges and flooding in the coming months.
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