Scientists warn: Atlantic currents near critical threshold

Researcher René von Westen stated that the impact of the negative situation in the Atlantic current system on the climate would be devastating.

Using complex climate models, researchers examined how heat and salt water move in the Atlantic in a system that includes the Gulf Stream, which contributes to the relatively mild climate in Scandinavia.

The flow of fresh water resulting from the melting of ice in Greenland and the Arctic is causing the strength of the currents to diminish.

In computer simulations, researchers are seeing 'early warning signs' that show the development continuing toward a 'critical threshold,' a tipping point where the current system collapses completely.

ABOUT THE NORTH ATLANTIC CURRENT

The North Atlantic Current is a powerful warm western boundary current that extends the Gulf Stream to the northeast. Starting from the Grand Banks, it extends to Ireland, where it splits into two branches.

The branch heading south is known as the Canary Current. The branch heading north splits into the Irminger and Norwegian currents between the Faroe Islands and Iceland.

These currents have a major impact on Europe's climate.

News Source: 12punto