The natural phenomenon that often affects the climate of the Pacific Coast is El Niño.

El Niño is a recurring climatic event characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon influences weather patterns not just in the Pacific region but globally. Along the Pacific Coast, particularly in California, El Niño typically results in wetter winters, leading to increased rainfall and sometimes flooding. The warmer temperatures can also affect marine ecosystems, altering fish migration patterns and impacting local fisheries. Conversely, the opposite phase, La Niña, can bring drier conditions. Understanding El Niño is crucial for predicting seasonal weather variations and managing water resources along the coast.