"California Coast Experiences Alarming Marine Heat Wave, Satellite Image Reveals"

The Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite has captured a marine heat wave off the coast of California in data from August 2023. This heat wave is a signature of El Niño, a climate cycle that sees the Pacific Ocean warm and the trade winds weaken at irregular intervals. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted a greater than 70% chance for a strong El Niño this coming winter. Scientists can use SWOT data to monitor sea level changes and inform their forecasts and models.