Ocean currents are shifting

Changes in sea surface temperature result from changes in heat transport from the atmosphere due to changing winds and waves, horizontal changes in surface ocean currents

A new study published in the journal Oxford Open Climate Change indicates that the extensive bleaching and deaths of coral point to a more staggering change - the pattern of ocean currents is shifting.

With 2023 being the hottest year on record, and 2024 already following a similar trend, dramatic and unexpected temperatures are expected across the oceans that could worsen the situation.

The study revealed that all major warm currents show extreme warming during 2023, suggesting that heat transport from the tropics to the polar regions has accelerated.

Scientists analysed temperatures based on infrared emissions from the sea surface. Changes in sea surface temperature result from changes in heat transport from the atmosphere due to changing winds and waves, horizontal changes in surface ocean currents, and vertical movement due to the mixing of surface and deep water.

While the tropics are relatively cool, the heating is greatest in the sub-polar oceans, accelerating polar ice melting and increasing ocean stratification.

This could drive changes in the currents that could lead to major changes in weather patterns across the world and damage the ecosystem