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Gulf Stream Slowdown in Progress?

Posted by timothy on from the we-need-more-cfcs-now dept.

peacefinder writes "Researchers report that one process which drives the Gulf Stream is slowing down. As that current is part of the global oceanic heat conveyor which keeps parts of Europe and North America warmer than would be expected for their latitudes, such a slowdown might lead to abrupt climate change."

4 of 109 comments (clear)

  1. Demise of the Maya by 4of12 · · Score: 4, Interesting

    A TV program a while back highlighted research investigating just why huge indigenous populations of Central America mysteriously disappeared around 800.

    Lakebed sediment cores suggested a fairly severe multi-year drought around that time that was linked (through that Atlantic conveyor) to some severe winters in northern Europe. That drought was thought to disrupt agriculture that those cultures relied upon.

    --
    "Provided by the management for your protection."
  2. Re:Yes, climate will change... by uncadonna · · Score: 3, Interesting
    Normally, 10 millenia is a short time in geophysics. Watch out for the next few centuries though. They'll be among the most exciting highlights of the entire multi-billion-year record.

    Welcome to the anthropocene.

    --
    mt
  3. Darn by aoteoroa · · Score: 3, Interesting

    Here on the Canadian West Coast global warming has been great. Winters are getting milder and milder and we've have had some great summers in the last few years.

    The only downsides have been a few pesky forest fires, and annual water restrictions.

  4. negative nancy by witte · · Score: 3, Interesting

    As usual, this will only become an issue once the majority of people make the connection between climate change, its origins, and the resulting unpleasantness. (Starvation, war for dwindling resources, mad max, etc.)