Total collapse of vital Atlantic currents unlikely this century, study finds

A recent study indicates that while the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc) will likely weaken under climate change, a complete collapse is improbable before 2100. Scientists caution that this system, crucial for global climate, is approaching instability as observed through limited ocean measurements. The research highlights Southern Ocean winds as regulators of the circulation's stability. Despite reassurances that an abrupt crash is unlikely, researchers emphasize the significant climate challenges that partial weakening could bring, urging governments to enhance efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions urgently.

We found that the Amoc is very likely to weaken under global warming, but it's unlikely to collapse this century, said Dr Jonathan Baker at the UK's Met Office.

The latest study is important because it uses climate models to reveal the reason that the Amoc is more stable: winds in the Southern Ocean continuing to draw water up to the surface.

Amoc weakening would still bring major climate challenges across the globe however, with more floods and droughts and faster sea level rise.

Even a collapse in the next century would have disastrous impacts on billions of people, confirming the urgency to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Read at www.theguardian.com