The Earth’s atmosphere and oceans influence each other continuously. This relationship affects wind, weather patterns, and ocean currents. When the atmosphere warms, changes occur in these dynamics.
A warming climate impacts not just land, but also affects the ocean. For years, the ocean has absorbed a significant portion of the heat generated by fossil fuel use. This absorption primarily impacts the upper 200 meters of the ocean, altering its behavior.
Scientific models predict that warming will cause most surface currents worldwide to accelerate. Some currents, like the Atlantic Circumpolar Current, are already changing. These shifts can lead to sea level rise, altered fish migration, and disrupted storm patterns.
This article is an episode summary from Sea Camp, a series exploring ocean depths. The series releases episodes every Monday with insights into the ocean world.
If you have questions about the ocean, reach out at [email protected]. Support our work at NPR and hear episodes sponsor-free by joining Short Wave+.