Ocean currents along the U.S. West Coast, particularly the California Current, lead to cooler summer temperatures in coastal areas.

The California Current, a cold ocean current that flows southward along the U.S. West Coast, plays a significant role in moderating coastal temperatures. By bringing cold water from the North Pacific, it lowers both ocean and air temperatures, leading to cooler summers along the coast. This cooling effect is most noticeable in California’s coastal cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, where summer temperatures remain relatively mild compared to inland areas. The result is a unique climate characterized by cool, foggy mornings, making the West Coast ideal for agriculture like vineyards and crops that thrive in temperate conditions.