El Niño-driven Kelvin Wave to Elevate Sea Levels Along California Coast
A significant coastal phenomenon known as a 'Kelvin wave' is causing elevated sea levels along the west coast of the United States, particularly in California. This wave, associated with the ongoing El Niño event, is a sustained bulge of excess water up to 30 kilometres wide, travelling along the coastline at approximately 10 kilometres per hour. Oceanographer Dillon Amaya explained that the wave raises sea states and, when combined with storm surges, large swells, or high tides, increases the risk of flooding and beach erosion. Recent storm surges in Southern California have already caused damage to beaches and properties, with some homes rendered uninhabitable. The wave is expected to reach San Diego within the next week, further exacerbating the flood risk in the region.