Ocean Current Collapse Risk Is Higher Than Previously Thought, Study Finds

Ocean Current Collapse Risk Is Higher Than Previously Thought, Study Finds
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Scientists have discovered that the risk of a major Atlantic ocean current collapsing is no longer a distant possibility, The Guardian reported. This new and “shocking” finding means that we must make rapid cuts to fossil fuel emissions to avoid catastrophic consequences.

The current, known as the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc), acts like a global conveyor belt, carrying warm water from the tropics to Europe. Its collapse would cause major and severe disruptions, including extreme cold winters and summer droughts in western Europe, and would add significantly to rising sea levels.

A new analysis found that even if we reduce carbon emissions, the chances of the current collapsing are much higher than once believed. The study’s authors warn that we may be only a decade or two away from passing a point of no return, after which the shutdown of the current would be inevitable. This emphasizes the urgent need for action on climate change.