The Influence of AMOC Collapse on South American Precipitation
Science / Geosciences
Recent studies show a marked reduction in the intensity of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), one of the most powerful ocean currents in the world, which may collapse later this century. The AMOC is responsible for distributing heat between the hemispheres and influences South America’s Monsoon System, which brings summer rains to the continent.
What will happen to rainfall patterns over South America if the AMOC collapses? We turn to precipitation in South America in the last two AMOC collapse events, more specifically, the sediments accumulated on the ocean floor to answer this question. Changes in rainfall patterns can have significant socio-environmental impacts and the information gathered in this project will help improve climate models, enabling planning and adaptation for the changes to come.
