What is the Kelvin wave on the West Coast?
Summary
Oceanographer Dr. Andrew Leising explains how Kelvin waves, triggered by El Niño, thicken warm surface layers to raise California sea levels by up to a foot. He details how these internal waves disrupt coastal upwelling, reducing nutrient flow to marine ecosystems. The discussion highlights how these waves compound existing marine heat waves and storm risks, creating a complex threat for the U.S. West Coast through early spring.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introduction to Kelvin waves and guest Dr. Andrew Leising
Why Kelvin waves are trending in the news
Mechanism: How El Nino winds create internal waves
How thickening warm water layers raises sea level
Wave trajectory from the equator to the US coast
Frequency and timing of Kelvin wave pulses
Media attention and the 'Super El Nino' narrative
Assessing current risks and storm surge potential
Ecological aftereffects and impact on upwelling
Distinguishing Kelvin waves from marine heat waves
Comparison to the 2015 'The Blob' event
Duration of the phenomenon and closing remarks
Production credits and final sponsor
Listen ad-free on Castria