Ecuador coasts face rising sea levels and heavy swells

The coasts of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands are facing increased maritime risks due to a combination of long-period swells and a warm Kelvin wave. The Instituto Oceanográfico y Antártico de la Armada (Inocar) has forecasted significant swells between September 15 and 17, with waves reaching up to 1.5 meters on the mainland and 2 meters in the Galápagos. These conditions may cause stronger breakers and dangerous rip currents.

Simultaneously, a warm Kelvin wave is displacing warm water toward the South American coast, contributing to sea level anomalies. Monitoring from Espol indicates sea level rises of up to 38 centimeters, with some tide gauges recording increases of 43 centimeters. This elevation in sea level increases the risk of coastal erosion and may cause waves to break further inland than usual. Experts warn that ports, particularly in Guayaquil, should prepare for potential amplifications in the Estero Salado that could exceed 75 centimeters. These oceanic disturbances are expected to continue through September and October as the El Niño phenomenon progresses.