What threat does climate change pose to the AMOC?

Climate change is altering ocean temperatures, potentially disrupting the AMOC's delicate balance and leading to its weakening or collapse.

When might the effects of an AMOC collapse be felt?

Scientists suggest that the most significant global repercussions of an AMOC collapse might not be felt until after the year 2100.

Home / Science / Atlantic Ocean Nears Critical Climate Tipping Point

Atlantic Ocean Nears Critical Climate Tipping Point

Q: What is the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)?

The AMOC is a system of ocean currents that regulates global temperature by moving warm and cold water around the Atlantic Ocean.

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Summary

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may collapse.
AMOC collapse could drastically alter global climate patterns.
Impacts might be felt globally after the year 2100.

Atlantic Ocean Nears Critical Climate Tipping Point

The Atlantic Ocean, a critical regulator of Earth's climate, faces an unprecedented threat from climate change. Research published in November 2025 indicates that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a vast system of ocean currents, is nearing a potential collapse. This "conveyor belt" system is vital for moderating global temperatures, generating oxygen, and absorbing carbon dioxide.

The AMOC's function relies on the delicate balance of warmer, saltier surface waters and cooler, denser deep waters. Climate change is altering these water temperatures, disrupting the natural upwelling and sinking cycles that sustain marine ecosystems and nutrient distribution. This disruption could lead to a significant weakening or complete shutdown of the AMOC.

Scientists project that a collapse of the AMOC could have chilling global repercussions, including decreased rainfall in Europe, more extreme summers, and increased drought risk. While the full impact might not be felt until after 2100, the study highlights the urgent need to address climate change to prevent irreversible damage to this essential planetary system.