Science · 2026-10-26 · Afternoon briefing

Key Atlantic ocean current has slowed 18% in 40 years

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a crucial system of ocean currents, has slowed by 18% over the last 40 years. According to an analysis published on October 26th, 2026, satellite measurements tracking heat released to the atmosphere show the system is transporting significantly less warmth towards Europe. This provides some of the strongest observational evidence to date of a slowdown.

The AMOC, which includes the well-known Gulf Stream, is a primary reason for Europe's relatively mild climate. It functions by moving warm, salty water from the Gulf of Mexico into the north Atlantic. In the colder northern latitudes, this water cools, increases in density and sinks deep, before returning south along the sea floor in a continuous loop.

While climate models have for years projected such a weakening, the new findings are based on direct measurement. The satellite data effectively confirms that a process previously confined to complex simulations is now an observable reality.

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

Read the sources

• Scientists say the Atlantic’s key current system is showing signs of slowing
• Current events: Scientists keep close eye on Atlantic Ocean changes
• Atlantic Ocean Currents Can Recover From Severe Climate Weakening, Study Finds
• Scientists say a critical Atlantic Ocean current is weakening and the effects could be global
• Atlantic Ocean currents are changing: Scientists warn AMOC could reshape weather, sea levels and marine life

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