The Catalina Eddy

Image

Image: NASA Earth Observatory

On June 13, 2018, the National Weather Service reported a small but well-defined eddy off the coast near the border of Orange County and San Diego County. An eddy is a counter-clockwise circulation pattern of fog and clouds. The Catalina eddy typically brings cool, moist air to the coast. A similar eddy was also reported in 2013 (pictured) by the NASA Earth Observatory.

Why do the clouds take on a whirlpool shape? What causes the Catalina eddy, and when does it typically appear?

Resources:

NASA Earth Observatory: Catalina eddy

San Diego Union Tribune: The beauty of a Catalina eddy

Times of San Diego: Catalina eddy phenomenon spotted off San Diego coast

Type
Phenomena
Subject
Earth and Space Science

More Activities & Resources:

Calcium can leave white stains around faucets and hoses.
Phenomena

In eastern San Diego County, just north of Interstate 8 in the McCain Valley,

Phenomena
San Diego residents reported an increase in coyote sightings in suburban neighborhoods
Phenomena

The Fleet Science Center invites you to connect to the power of science through FLEETtv!