An abrupt shutdown of Atlantic Ocean currents that could put large parts of Europe in a deep freeze is looking a bit more likely and closer than before.
The Lost City Hydrothermal Field, which was found by researchers in 2000 and is located more than 700 metres below the surface, is the ocean’s longest-lasting venting environment. It is unique and has never been matched.
A recent study notes that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is losing its stability. Modelling studies have shown that an AMOC shutdown would cool the northern hemisphere and decrease rainfall over Europe.
The Gulf Stream in the north Atlantic ocean, which has a considerable effect on Ireland’s climate, is at its weakest in over a millennium. Human-caused global warming is the most likely cause.
