What can change the direction or deflect surface currents?

Surface currents can be changed or deflected by several factors, including wind patterns, the Coriolis effect, and the presence of landmasses. Wind drives surface currents, and variations in wind speed and direction can alter their paths. The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, causes currents to veer to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, coastal features and the shape of ocean basins can redirect currents as they encounter land.