Warm water surge from El Niño threatens Bay Area marine life

CBS News Bay Area reported that a new surge of warm water, with temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees, is moving northward from Southern California toward the Bay Area. This surge is driven by a Kelvin wave, an underwater swell originating at the equator, which takes about two months to cross the Pacific Ocean before reaching northern waters.

The National Weather Service issued a warning about this warm water surge, noting it is causing increased sea surface temperatures offshore. This warming has already contributed to recent tidal flooding observed around the Bay Area.

Scientists express concern about the effects of this sudden warming on marine wildlife. Dr. Grant Ballard, chief science officer at Point Blue, explained that the strongest visible impacts are expected this winter and could affect the breeding season of seabirds, seals, and sea lions next year.

Ballard noted that while some species can adapt to environmental changes, rapid and consecutive years of adverse conditions can lead to population declines. He suggested that some young animals may not survive to return in future years, indicating potential long-term effects on local marine populations.