A Massive “Warm Blob” Resurfaces in the Pacific Ocean

NEW YORK (WPIX) — A massive “warm blob” has resurfaced in the Pacific Ocean — and it could shape the coming winter across the U.S.

A Record-Breaking Marine Heat Wave

A major warm water anomaly has developed over the summer south of Alaska, sparking concerns for marine life and continental weather patterns.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the North Pacific sea surface temperature hit 20°C (68°F) in August, which would put it as the highest on record. For perspective, the first time it reached 19°C was 11 years ago, with records dating back to 1854.

Shows abnormally warm water across the entire Northeast Pacific. (Credit: NOAA)

This event marks the fourth-largest marine heat wave since 1982, spanning a vast region from north of Hawaii to the coasts of California and Alaska.

Danger for the Marine Ecosystem

The temperature spike is already disrupting marine life. Warmer waters can:

• Alter feeding patterns of marine animals
• Trigger harmful algae blooms
• Stress ecosystems along the California, Washington and Oregon coasts

The University of Washington study recently published in the journal Science suggested that 4 million common murres died following unusually warm conditions in the northeastern Pacific Ocean between 2014 and 2016 when similar abnormal water temperatures appeared in this region.

These impacts may ripple through commercial fisheries, local economies, and coastal biodiversity in the coming months and years ahead.

Weather Pattern Shift: What it Means for Winter

From a meteorological view, this setup can be significant.

The warm anomaly tends to build high-pressure ridges over the Pacific Northwest, which pushes the jet stream eastward, often unleashing colder Arctic air into the eastern U.S..

This developing pattern closely mirrors what happened in the summer, fall and winter of 2013–2014, which featured:

• A neutral-to-weak La Niña ENSO pattern
• Below-average hurricane activity in the Atlantic
• Massive cold outbreaks and snowfall across the Northeast

That year, New York City recorded 57 inches of snow, Philadelphia saw 63 inches, and the following year, Boston shattered records with 110 inches.

NOAA 2013 Hurricane Season/Activity showing below average. (Credit: NOAA)

Is History Repeating Itself?

The current oceanic and atmospheric setup strongly resembles the winter of 2013–2014, raising the possibility of another brutal season for the East Coast — especially with hurricane activity already trending below normal, just like it did back then.

While forecasts will evolve, the reappearance of the Pacific “Warm Blob” is a red flag for both scientists and weather watchers alike.

Conclusion

The resurgence of the Pacific “Warm Blob” has significant implications for the upcoming winter season. With its potential to disrupt marine ecosystems and influence weather patterns, it is essential to monitor its development and prepare for possible extreme weather events. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial to stay informed and adapt to any changes that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about the Pacific “Warm Blob” and its effects:

Q: What is the Pacific “Warm Blob”?

A: The Pacific “Warm Blob” is a massive warm water anomaly that has developed in the Pacific Ocean, south of Alaska. It is characterized by unusually high sea surface temperatures, which can disrupt marine ecosystems and influence weather patterns.

Q: How does the Pacific “Warm Blob” affect marine life?

A: The warm waters can alter feeding patterns of marine animals, trigger harmful algae blooms, and stress ecosystems along the California, Washington, and Oregon coasts.

Q: What are the potential weather implications of the Pacific “Warm Blob”?

A: The warm anomaly can build high-pressure ridges over the Pacific Northwest, pushing the jet stream eastward and unleashing colder Arctic air into the eastern U.S. This can lead to massive cold outbreaks and snowfall across the Northeast.

Q: Is the Pacific “Warm Blob” related to climate change?

A: While the Pacific “Warm Blob” is a natural phenomenon, climate change can contribute to its development and persistence. Warmer ocean temperatures and changes in atmospheric circulation patterns can exacerbate the effects of the “Warm Blob”.

Q: How can I stay informed about the Pacific “Warm Blob” and its effects?

A: You can stay up-to-date with the latest news and forecasts from reputable sources, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS). It is also essential to follow local weather forecasts and warnings to prepare for any potential extreme weather events.