The Gulf Stream is a vital ocean current that transports warm water to Europe. Recent studies indicate that it has been weakening for centuries, beginning approximately 300 years ago, earlier than previously understood. This weakening is linked to the broader Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which is crucial for maintaining the temperate climate in Europe and the eastern United States. Scientists warn that a collapse of this system could lead to drastic climatic shifts, including severe cooling in Northern Europe.
The Gulf Stream, which is part of a wider global system of ocean currents, moved northwards 300 years ago, indicating it started slowing down much earlier than previously believed.
This sensitive system could soon cross a tipping point prior to its total collapse, potentially plunging Europe into a severe cold akin to that depicted in 'The Day After Tomorrow'.
The Gulf Stream, as part of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), is crucial for maintaining the temperate climate of Europe, the UK, and the US east coast.
If the AMOC weakens too significantly, it could lead to dramatic regional climate changes, resulting in extreme cooling in Northern Europe.
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