How do ocean currents impact temperature variations in coastal cities?
Note
Ocean currents moderate temperatures in coastal cities by reducing temperature extremes and creating milder climates.
Ocean currents play a key role in moderating the temperatures of coastal cities. Because water has a high heat capacity, it absorbs and releases heat more slowly than land. This means that ocean currents can help keep coastal temperatures more stable. Warm currents, like the Gulf Stream, can raise temperatures in cooler months, while cold currents, like the California Current, help cool down coastal areas during warmer months. As a result, coastal regions often experience milder winters and cooler summers compared to inland areas, contributing to a more temperate and comfortable climate year-round.