El Niño has already caused a 40-centimetre rise in sea levels in parts of the eastern Pacific, according to a new report. The phenomenon is still strengthening, which could lead to coastal flooding along a vast stretch of coastline from Alaska to Chile.
The rise is dramatic and highlights how El Niño can affect sea levels on a regional scale. The article notes that the situation could get worse as the event continues to develop, with flooding risk extending across the Pacific coast of the Americas.
While the exact future impacts are uncertain, the report underscores the need for coastal communities to prepare for higher water levels during strong El Niño events.