Atlantic Ocean current collapse now ‘almost inevitable’

• New research indicates the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc) is significantly more likely to collapse than previously understood.
• Experts suggest the Amoc could reach a shutdown tipping point within decades, with a projected slowdown of 42-58 per cent by 2100, making collapse almost inevitable.
• A collapse would trigger catastrophic consequences for Europe, including extreme cold winters and summer droughts, and disrupt tropical rainfall patterns globally.
• The study, led by Dr Valentin Portman Inria, combined ocean observations and computer models to determine that a catastrophic slowdown is the most probable outcome.
• While some earlier research offered a more optimistic outlook, even a weakened Amoc is expected to cause severe economic and environmental impacts.

IN FULL

Vital Atlantic current likely to collapse with catastrophic consequences, scientists warn