The Climate Effects of the Pacific Ocean: How the World's Largest Ocean Shapes Global Weather Patterns

The Pacific Ocean's Climate Power

The Pacific Ocean, covering more than one-third of the Earth’s surface, is not just the largest ocean on the planet but also one of the most powerful drivers of global climate. Its massive volume and vast surface area give it a unique ability to absorb, store, and redistribute heat and moisture across continents and hemispheres. From shaping rainfall in Asia to triggering droughts in Africa and heatwaves in North America, the Pacific Ocean’s influence is everywhere.