Scientists predict collapse of key Atlantic Ocean current by 2057

Two Danish researchers, Peter and Susanne Ditlevsen, forecast the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation may collapse as early as 2057, raising concerns about severe global climate impacts.

Sandra Upson reports for Wired.

In short:

• The AMOC, a crucial ocean current system, could collapse by 2057, significantly altering global climate patterns.
• The Ditlevsens' study indicates the AMOC is weakening due to rising temperatures and increased freshwater input from melting ice.
• A collapse could lead to harsher winters in Europe, rising sea levels and severe disruptions in global weather patterns and agriculture.

Key quote:

“We were completely overwhelmed by all the media attention, and then of course from all the weirdos.”

— Susanne Ditlevsen, statistics professor

Why this matters:

The potential collapse of the AMOC could trigger drastic changes in weather, agriculture and sea levels, impacting billions of people worldwide.

Related EHN coverage:

• Climate simulation raises alarm over potential ocean circulation collapse
• Rising ocean temperatures signal potential global disruptions
• The seas have changed for good, scientists say