Scientists say warming waters will affect west coast fisheries for the next few years, as climate change collides with an upcoming El Nino current.
Reduced upwelling in the ocean means less nutrients and reduced ocean productivity.
For Alberni Inlet salmon stocks, researchers say the warm weather makes the Somass too warm for the salmon to swim upriver, and a warm surface layer in the inlet and poorly oxygenated sub-surface layers are highly stressful to adult migrating salmon holding in the upper inlet for weeks to months.
On the other hand, hake and sardine populations often surge during El Nino periods as they move north from American waters.
The World Meteorological Organization announced last month that the upcoming El Nino will have far reaching repercussions for health, food security, water management and the environment.
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