The Marvelous Movement of Surface Currents
Surface ocean currents play a critical role in regulating climate and weather patterns across the globe. Powered by winds, the rotation of the Earth, and various water temperatures, these currents can be thought of as the massive rivers that traverse our oceans.
Key Ocean Currents
- Gulf Stream: A swift, warm current in the Atlantic Ocean that influences the climate of the East Coast of the USA and Western Europe.
- Kuroshio Current: Also known as the Japan Current, it is a warm north-flowing current off the coasts of Japan.
- California Current: A Pacific Ocean current that moves southward along the West Coast of North America, bringing cool, nutrient-rich waters.
Interested in learning more? Check out our Ocean Currents Resources page.