Amoc collapse could change Europe’s climate 10x faster than expected. We aren’t ready
Summary
The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (Amoc) is a large ocean current system that helps regulate Europe’s climate by moving heat from the south to the north Atlantic. Scientists warn that the Amoc may weaken or even collapse due to climate change, which could cause much faster and more severe climate shifts in Europe, but monitoring efforts face funding cuts.Key Facts
- The Amoc moves warm water northwards in the Atlantic Ocean and influences Europe’s weather and climate.
- A weakening or collapse of the Amoc could make climate changes in Europe happen up to 10 times faster than now.
- Changes in the Amoc affect food security, sea levels, flooding, storms, and energy needs.
- Current climate models disagree on when and how fast the Amoc will weaken because of limited understanding and data.
- Systematic measurements of the Amoc only started about 20 years ago, but they have improved climate predictions.
- Funding for Amoc monitoring programs is at risk of being cut or discontinued.
- Reduced monitoring leaves scientists and policymakers less able to prepare for or respond to changes in the Amoc.
- Despite the growing threat, some governments prioritize space monitoring over ocean current monitoring.
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