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Kelvin wave may raise California sea levels a foot

By Drooid · Sep 28, 2026, 4:22 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

U.S. scientists say a Kelvin wave could raise California sea levels by up to a foot.
El Niño is supercharging storm-surge and flooding threats along the California coast this winter.
The wave struck northern South America in August and may reach California in days.
NOAA scientist Nate Mantua says weakened trade winds let warm Pacific water surge toward California.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a California emergency to prepare for winter storms.

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Story summary

U.S. scientists say a Kelvin wave could raise California sea levels by up to a foot.
El Niño is supercharging storm-surge and flooding threats along the California coast this winter.
The wave struck northern South America in August and may reach California in days.
NOAA scientist Nate Mantua says weakened trade winds let warm Pacific water surge toward California.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a California emergency to prepare for winter storms.