As greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, ocean temperatures continue to rise. These warmer conditions set the stage for powerful natural cycles like El Niño to become even stronger. What's more, during major El Niño events, massive underwater surges known as Kelvin waves travel thousands of miles/kilometers across the Pacific Ocean.
When these huge waves hit land, they push water against coastlines and temporarily raise sea levels. Combined with high tides and winter storms, this extra water can cause severe coastal flooding and beach erosion.
This gallery explains how Kelvin waves work, and how this phenomena threatens coastal communities. Click on to learn more.