Cold Blob in Atlantic Suggests AMOC Weakening

A cold blob in the north Atlantic has cooled by up to 1°C since 1951 and is linked to weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. The AMOC transports warm water from the Gulf of Mexico to the north Atlantic where it sinks and returns south along the ocean floor. Freshwater from Greenland's melting ice reduces water density, slowing sinking and weakening the circulation. Scientists note only 22 years of direct AMOC observations exist, limiting trend detection.