When Does Upwelling Occur in California?

Upwelling in the California Current is influenced by seasonal changes in the intensity of northwesterly winds. The upwelling season is most pronounced in spring and summer, when northwesterly winds are at their highest of the year. Upwelling is reduced in fall and winter, when winds relax and are more variable.

What season does upwelling occur?

In winter, winds blow from the south to the north, resulting in downwelling. During the summer, winds blow from the north to the south, and water moves offshore, resulting in upwelling along the coast.

How often does upwelling occur?

Normally, this upwelling process occurs at a rate of about 5–10 meters per day, but the rate and proximity of upwelling to the coast can be changed due to the strength and distance of the wind.