What are 2 important ways that the Pacific Ocean affects land and people of Washington?

1. Climate moderation: The Pacific Ocean has a significant influence on the climate of Washington state. The warm waters of the ocean act as a heat reservoir, helping to keep the state's climate relatively mild and humid. This is particularly noticeable in Western Washington, where the average winter temperature is 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average summer temperature is 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The Pacific Ocean also helps to moderate the state's precipitation patterns. The Olympic Mountains, which run parallel to the coast, act as a barrier to the prevailing westerly winds, causing them to drop their moisture on the western slopes of the mountains. This results in Western Washington receiving significantly more precipitation than Eastern Washington.

2. Economic importance: The Pacific Ocean is also of vital economic importance to Washington state. The state's largest city, Seattle, is a major port city and a hub for international trade. The Port of Seattle is one of the busiest ports in the United States, and it handles a wide variety of cargo, including containerized goods, bulk cargo, and automobiles. The Pacific Ocean is also a major source of food for Washington state. The state's commercial fishing industry is one of the largest in the United States, and it harvests a variety of species, including salmon, crab, and shellfish. In addition, the Pacific Ocean is a popular tourist destination. The state's coastline is home to a number of beautiful beaches, parks, and resorts.