'The Blob' returns: What Pacific heat wave means for U.S.
The Weather Channel · Just In
The Weather Channel
Just In
A massive marine heat wave called "the blob" has returned, stretching 5,000 miles across the Pacific and ranking as the fourth-largest on record. Beyond disrupting ocean ecosystems from plankton to whales, this warming phenomenon reshapes weather patterns nationwide, potentially bringing wetter storms to the West Coast while triggering colder, wetter winters in the eastern United States.
Breakdown
- A massive marine heat wave, 'the blob,' extends about 5,000 miles across the Pacific.
- This is the fourth largest Northeast Pacific blob on record, disrupting ocean ecosystems. 10s
- Warmer waters reduce nutrient and oxygen availability, affecting marine life and predators. 19s
- The heat wave increases storm moisture for the U.S. West Coast and reduces mountain snowpack. 48s
- It disrupts the jet stream, potentially causing colder, wetter winters in the eastern U.S. 59s