Slowing Atlantic Current May Intensify California Storms
Slowing Atlantic Current May Intensify California Storms
US · Published Jul 29, 2026
New research from the University of California, Riverside, highlights the potential global impacts of a slowing Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC).
This vast ocean current system, which regulates climate by transporting warm water northward and cooler water southward, is weakening due to climate change.

Impact & Risks

The weakening AMOC could lead to stronger atmospheric rivers in California, increasing the risk of severe flooding and infrastructure damage. These storms, while vital for the state's water supply, may bring widespread destruction if their intensity grows. In Greenland, reduced snowfall could slow ice accumulation, contributing to rising sea levels. The study also predicts shifts in storm patterns globally, with more atmospheric rivers in South America and Antarctica. These changes are linked to high greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action.

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