The Atlantic Ocean is home to an abundance of life, with much of its deep, dark waters still a mystery to scientists. In fact, over 90% of the world’s oceans remain unexplored, leaving many discoveries yet to be made. While the ocean is often seen as fascinating, certain changes, such as shifts in temperature, raise concerns.
Recent Changes in the Atlantic Ocean
Climate change warnings have become more frequent, with rising global temperatures leading to increasingly intense summers. Last year saw record heat, but scientists have noticed something unusual in the Atlantic Ocean—it is cooling.
Atlantic Ocean Cooling
Researchers have observed that in recent months, the Atlantic Ocean’s temperature has dropped at an unprecedented rate, registering 1 to 2 degrees lower than expected for this time of year. While this may seem minor, scientists are puzzled by the cause. According to Frans Philip Tuchen, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Miami, no clear explanation has yet emerged.
NOAA’s Findings on Atlantic Ocean Temperature
Since March 2023, the Atlantic Ocean has been experiencing record highs due to strong El Niño conditions between 2023 and 2024. However, NOAA data shows that temperatures have been cooling since May, and an early arrival of La Niña may be responsible. Typically, this weather shift happens around September, but its early onset has left the Atlantic and other oceans vulnerable to further temperature swings.
Hurricane Season Intensification
These weather patterns are complex and affect various factors like trade winds, solar heating, and rainfall. Experts caution that the unpredictable changes in the Atlantic could alter rainfall patterns and raise the risk of hurricanes. The early shift in conditions has been described as a “tug of war” between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, with the Atlantic trying to warm as the Pacific cools, according to NOAA’s Michael McPhaden.
The Role of Carbon Dioxide
Climate change is partially driven by human activities, such as the release of harmful chemicals and improper waste disposal. However, natural climate cycles, occurring every 100,000 and 11,000 years, also play a role. For example, Earth has alternated between warm periods (interglacial) and cold periods (ice ages) for over a million years. Scientists have identified carbon dioxide as a key factor in these historical temperature shifts.
Long-term Climate Changes
About 11,000 years ago, the Pacific Northwest U.S. was warm and dry, while the Southwest was cool and wet. These patterns are often linked to human activities like urbanization, which increases carbon dioxide emissions while reducing the trees and plants that absorb greenhouse gases.
Atlantic Ocean Plant Life
Fortunately, oceans like the Atlantic and Pacific are rich in plankton and algae that help absorb carbon dioxide. However, the ongoing unpredictable changes in climate may pose a threat to this plant life. As scientists warn of a colder and harsher winter, they also predict a more intense hurricane season.
Preparing for Weather Changes
There are several steps to prepare for potential weather-related hazards:
Stock up on non-perishable foods like canned goods, freeze-dried produce, dry beans or oats, and preserved meats.
Have emergency candles and flashlights with working batteries.
Use duct tape and cardboard to reinforce windows and doors during hurricanes.
Secure belongings in waterproof containers.
Ensure windows and doors are properly insulated.
Store bottled water or jugs of water.
Consider purchasing a generator if power outages are common in your area.
Keep prescriptions and medications up to date.
Assemble a first aid kit, garbage bags, wipes, and hand sanitizer.
Store important documents in a safe place.
Stay informed about weather changes, particularly those in the Atlantic, as they could affect cities and global food production.
