Scientists say a massive pulse of warm water racing beneath the Pacific could raise California's sea levels by up to 10 inches within weeks, increasing the risk of winter flooding and storm surges as El Niño strengthens.
The so‑called Kelvin wave reached the northern tip of South America in late August before moving northwards. It is expected to arrive in Southern California by early October, temporarily lifting sea levels by about 5 to 10 inches.
