Kelvin wave raising West Coast sea levels by 6 to 8 inches
A Kelvin wave is a deep ocean event raising sea levels along the West Coast during this year's strong El Niño.
A Kelvin wave moves beneath the Pacific Ocean's surface, pushing warm water northward along the West Coast. The wave has already raised sea levels by 6 to 8 inches.
The wave is not a visible tsunami or surfable swell. A Kelvin wave is a gradual shift in water height and temperature.
Scientists say it increases the risk of coastal flooding by raising baseline water levels. When combined with storms or high tides, the effect becomes dangerous.
Tropical Storm Rachel hit southern California in early October. Raised sea levels from the Kelvin wave made the flooding worse.
Several more waves are expected through autumn and winter. The next one will reach San Diego in late October or early November.
The warmer water also brings unexpected marine life northward. A whale shark was spotted off San Diego.
- 6 to 8 inches
- Sea level rise
- Early October
- Tropical Storm Rachel timing
- Late October or early November
- Next wave arrival
- Late 1800s by Lord Kelvin
- First Kelvin wave description
Why it mattersKelvin waves increase the chances of coastal flooding by raising baseline sea levels. This makes storms and high tides cause more damage to homes and infrastructure.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet. Kelvin waves develop during El Niño in the Pacific and reach the Americas; Australia would need its own weather shift to be affected.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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