Coastal Upwelling

Coastal upwelling is a natural process where winds blow across the ocean surface, pushing warm surface water away from the coast. This causes colder, nutrient-rich water from deeper layers to rise to the surface. The influx of nutrients supports the growth of plankton and marine life, making upwelling zones highly productive and important for fisheries. Upwelling often results in clearer, cooler waters near the coast and is common along areas like the California coast and the western coasts of South America. It plays a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems and influencing local climate and weather patterns.