1 min readfrom Marine Biology Subreddit

Why do ocean temps vary so much?

Our take

Ocean temperatures can vary significantly due to a combination of geographical, meteorological, and oceanographic factors. The differences between coastal regions, such as the central coast of California and areas further north or south, are influenced by currents, upwelling, and local climate conditions. For instance, the California Current brings cooler waters southward, affecting temperatures along the coast. Additionally, coastal topography and surrounding landmasses can impact wind patterns and sunlight exposure, further contributing to these temperature discrepancies.

Was looking at water temperatures today because I’ve always been amused how the central coast is closer in temp to Canada than Los Angeles. Current temperatures today are

BC - 49°

Monterey - 59°

Morro Bay - 51°

Santa Barbara - 60°

All data from Surfline.

How is it that 100mi north of Morro Bay, and 100mi south, the water temps are significantly higher. What’s going on in that region?

submitted by /u/bread_spank
[link] [comments]

Read on the original site

Open the publisher's page for the full experience

View original article

Tagged with

#ocean data#data visualization#interactive ocean maps#ocean circulation#ocean temperatures#water temperatures#Morro Bay#Monterey#temperature differences#central coast#temperature variance#Los Angeles#Santa Barbara#ocean currents#Canada#Surfline#marine biology#coastal regions#BC#north