Given the increasing frequency and severity of extreme temperatures and natural disasters now occurring all around the world, it’s fairly clear that the current global climate crisis has grave impacts on our weather. What many people may not realize is that this is caused in part by changes to the ocean currents, which directly impact weather patterns. If appropriate climate intervention doesn’t happen immediately, these currents — including the Gulf Stream — will continue to be altered, with catastrophic results.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Gulf Stream?

The Gulf Stream is a strong, fast ocean current that carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico into the Atlantic Ocean in a northeastern direction, toward Iceland, the UK, and Europe. There, it mixes with cold North Atlantic water. It’s part of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a complex system of ocean currents that transport warm water from the tropics to the North Atlantic.

Why Is the Gulf Stream Important?

The Gulf Stream — a powerful part of the AMOC system — plays a pivotal role in regulating Earth’s climate, and is at risk of collapsing. 

In fact, recent studies suggest that the Gulf Stream could collapse as early as 2025, although estimates range up to 2095. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been more conservative in its projections, stating that a collapse this century is unlikely. However, some experts argue that the models used may not fully capture the nonlinear processes in its decline, potentially underestimating the risks.

The consequences of such an event would be catastrophic, affecting weather patterns, sea levels, and even agriculture on a global scale. Here’s what will happen if the Gulf Stream continues to deteriorate and why immediate action is necessary.

How Does the Gulf Stream Affect Climate?

The heat that the Gulf Stream brings to the North Atlantic heavily shapes the climate not only in Western Europe and the rest of the continent, but in the entire Northern Hemisphere. However, the Gulf Stream current has been weakening due to significant melting of the Greenland ice cap and Arctic sea ice, and the influx of freshwater sources. This dilutes the salinity (salt levels) of the ocean, reducing its density and causing the Gulf Stream to shut down. In turn, the natural flow of other ocean currents is being impacted as well, which upsets the balance of climate and weather worldwide.

If the Gulf Stream Stopped Running, How Would the Climates of North America and Europe Be Affected?

Here’s what will happen to climates in the Northern Hemisphere and beyond if the Gulf Stream shuts down completely.

Temperature Changes

If the warm Gulf Stream collapses, Western Europe would experience a dramatic drop in temperatures. A collapse could result in temperature drops of up to 10 or 15 degrees Celsius. This would have a domino effect on agriculture, energy consumption, and even human health, as colder temperatures could lead to increased respiratory issues.

Sea Level Rise

The eastern coast of North America would not be spared either. A collapse of the Gulf Stream would lead to a significant rise in sea levels in this region. This would exacerbate existing problems of coastal erosion and flooding, putting cities like New York and Boston at greater risk. The economic implications would be enormous, affecting property values and requiring massive investments in coastal defenses.

Global Agricultural Disruption

The collapse of the Gulf Stream would also severely disrupt the global water cycle, affecting rainfall patterns essential for agriculture elsewhere in the world. Countries in India, South America, and West Africa would be particularly hard-hit. Reduced rainfall and altered weather patterns could lead to crop failures, food shortages, and increased prices, affecting billions of people worldwide.

Ecological Consequences

The ecological impact would be devastating as well. The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” would be further endangered, leading to a loss of biodiversity and increased carbon dioxide levels. Similarly, the Antarctic ice sheets would face further melting, contributing to global sea level rise and disrupting marine ecosystems.

What Can Be Done to Save the Gulf Stream?

The most effective way to prevent the collapse of the Gulf Stream is to take multifaceted approaches to mitigating climate change. This includes many solutions many people are already familiar with, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and protecting and restoring forests, which act as carbon sinks. 

Another lesser-known yet equally essential intervention strategy is to find ways to slow and stop the melting of Arctic sea ice. Preserving this ice will help to reduce the influx of freshwater into the ocean, one of the primary factors weakening the Gulf Stream. It can also work to uphold the integrity of the larger AMOC system and keep the planet from climate devastation.

Help Protect Essential Sea Ice With Arctic Ice Project

Arctic Ice Project’s efforts are crucial to the protection of Arctic sea ice. Our team is developing reflective materials and strategies to increase the albedo of this precious ice, mimicking natural processes to reflect solar energy out of our atmosphere and restore the Arctic.

You can do your part in this critical fight by spreading awareness of and supporting efforts to mitigate the climate crisis. One way to do this is by donating to a climate restoration nonprofit like Arctic Ice Project. No donation is too small, though if you are not able to make a financial contribution, you can also share the message and inspire others to act through social media and by staying informed on climate projects.

With your donation of cash, stocks, bonds, or even the opening of a DAF, you can help ensure that Arctic sea life and humanity on our planet not only sees tomorrow, but a brighter one. Please consider donating to Arctic Ice Project today!