El Niño to Raise California Sea Levels by a Foot by Mid-October
El Niño to Raise California Sea Levels by a Foot by Mid-October
US · Published Sep 9, 2026
El Niño is set to cause a significant rise in sea levels along California's coast, with an increase of approximately one foot expected by mid-October
This phenomenon is driven by a coastal Kelvin wave, which is pushing a large volume of water northward from Mexico and Central America. The ongoing El Niño event, characterised by above-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific, is anticipated to be the strongest since at least

Impact & Risks

The anticipated sea level rise of 10 to 14 inches along California's coastline could significantly increase the risk of coastal flooding, particularly during high tides and winter storms. Communities built at or near sea level are especially vulnerable, with even minor increases in sea level potentially doubling flood risks. The compounded effects of El Niño and climate change-driven sea level rise could lead to severe damage to coastal infrastructure and properties.

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