Kelvin wave set to raise California sea levels by up to a foot
A Kelvin wave heading to California could raise sea levels by a foot within days.
A giant ocean wave called a Kelvin wave is heading toward California, bringing huge amounts of warm water that could lift sea levels significantly. Unlike beach waves, Kelvin waves span thousands of miles.
They move slowly across the Pacific when trade winds weaken during El Niño years. The current wave left South America in late August.
It could reach California within days. Sea levels could stay high for months.
Scientists warn this will combine with stronger storms and higher tides. The result will be more flooding and damage to the coast.
California's governor has declared a state of emergency. The state is staging equipment and search-and-rescue teams.
- Up to a foot
- Sea level rise
- Thousands of miles
- Wave span
- Within days
- Arrival
- Late August
- Departure from South America
Why it mattersRaised sea levels during peak storm season could cause lots of coastal flooding. Erosion damage is also a risk. Homes and infrastructure could be put at risk.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but similar El Niño patterns affect Australia's weather and rainfall, and any intensification of ocean systems has global climate implications.
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