Kelvin waves raise west coast sea levels

Science

PBS.org

Sea levels along the U.S. west coast are expected to rise by as much as six inches to a foot as a series of Kelvin waves associated with this strong El Niño move north from October through February. The pulses travel about 6 miles per hour and extend roughly 12 to 20 miles offshore and 200 meters deep, raising baseline water levels, warming surface waters and pushing nutrient-rich cold water deeper. Higher baselines amplify high tides, storm surges and north Pacific swell impacts, increasing the likelihood of exceptional beach erosion and damage to coastal infrastructure.

Kelvin waves could raise west coast sea levels by up to one foot.