World News

A Kelvin wave raised sea levels on the West Coast. More are coming

Oct 19, 2026 · Ava Berger

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

A Kelvin wave raised sea levels on the West Coast. More are coming
Coastally trapped Kelvin waves moving along the West Coast. The dark red represents higher than normal sea levels.
Coastally trapped Kelvin waves moving along the West Coast. The dark red represents higher than normal sea levels.

A large underwater wave moved up the West Coast, raising sea levels. Scientists say it's driven by El Niño and it's going to happen again.

(Image credit: Dillon J. Amaya)

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