There is no threat of stopping the Atlantic currents yet

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The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation is a current system that plays an important role in global climate. As a result of the climate crisis, the complex system of currents is weakening, but it is very difficult to determine when it will collapse.

Ocean measurement studies indicate that the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation is becoming unstable and approaching a tipping point. It was originally thought to occur this century, but there are only twenty years of direct measurements, which introduce large uncertainties. Climate models suggest that a collapse is unlikely before 2100.

The latest study is important because it uses climate models to reveal the reason for the greater stability of the Atlantic circulation. Winds in the Southern Ocean continuously pull water to the surface and drive the entire system. At the same time, the study does not rule out that the collapse will occur after 2100.

The Atlantic Circulation has been found to be weakened due to global warming. Thanks to the positive findings, the governments of individual countries can better plan for future climate impacts. At the same time, it is important to continue reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order not to slow down the currents and with it also the related climate problems around the world.

The study brought about a substantial improvement in the understanding of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation. The system brings warm, salty water to the Arctic, where it cools and flows southward. Global warming is pushing water temperatures up and increasing the melting of the huge Greenland ice sheet, flooding the area with fresh water. This ultimately means that the water is less dense, which reduces sinking and slows currents.

It has been known for some time that the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation is the weakest in 1600 years. If a collapse were to occur, it would have catastrophic consequences around the world in the form of disrupted rainfall, a drop in temperatures in Europe, an increase in the ferocity of storms, and a rise in sea levels on the east coast of North America. Collapse would also threaten the Amazon rainforest and Antarctic ice sheets.

Source:Guardian