Serious warnings are broadcasting scientists about the possible collapse of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (Atlantic Meridian Reversal of Traffic, ACO), an Atlantic Ocean current system, which plays a decisive role in regulating the global climate. Such a development could lead to a sharp drop in temperatures in Europe and dramatic changes in world weather.
AMOC transports warm water from Ecuador to North, contributing to Europe’s mild climate. However, a new study published in the Geophysical Research Letters finds that destabilizing this system, mainly due to global warming and melting of ice, can lead to 80% weakening or even complete collapse.
According to researchers, in a scenario where the Earth has already been heated by 2 ° C compared to pre -industrial levels, AMOC’s collapse could cause “significant cold” over Europe. Cities such as London and Oslo may experience winters with temperatures reaching -17 ° C and dense sea ice coverage, which will extend to Scandinavia and the Northern Netherlands.
This cold displacement will be accompanied by increased thunderstorms due to the strengthening of the aerosocharge from the temperature difference between northern and southern Europe. At the same time, summer heatwaves will not be eliminated. On the contrary, they will intensify, causing a dangerous combination of extreme weather.
Outside Europe, AMOC destabilization will have global impacts: increased rise in sea levels, especially on the US coasts, enhancing flooding and changing tropical climate zones.
Although the study was based on a single simulation model, it enhances the need for vigilance. Experts, such as Professor Richard Allen of the University of Reading, note that there are many uncertainties, but even the likelihood of such a collapse is enough to mean a global alarm.
“Our society is not prepared for such cold phenomena“, Emphasizes René Van Westen, a researcher at the University of Utrecht and co-author of the study. “An AMOC collapse would be catastrophic for infrastructure, agricultural production and food safety. We want to avoid it at all costs“
Source: Skai
I have worked as a journalist for over 10 years, and my work has been featured on many different news websites. I am also an author, and my work has been published in several books. I specialize in opinion writing, and I often write about current events and controversial topics. I am a very well-rounded writer, and I have a lot of experience in different areas of journalism. I am a very hard worker, and I am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done.
