Is the Thermohaline Circulation Changing?

M. Latif; C. Böning; J. Willebrand; A. Biastoch; J. Dengg; N. Keenlyside; U. Schweckendiek; G. Madec

doi:10.1175/jcli3876.1

journal article Sep 15, 2006

Is the Thermohaline Circulation Changing?

M. Latif

C. Böning J. Willebrand A. Biastoch J. Dengg N. Keenlyside U. Schweckendiek G. Madec

Journal of Climate Vol. 19 No. 18 pp. 4631-4637 · American Meteorological Society

View at Publisher Save 10.1175/jcli3876.1

Abstract

Abstract
Analyses of ocean observations and model simulations suggest that there have been considerable changes in the thermohaline circulation (THC) during the last century. These changes are likely to be the result of natural multidecadal climate variability and are driven by low-frequency variations of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) through changes in Labrador Sea convection. Indications of a sustained THC weakening are not seen during the last few decades. Instead, a strengthening since the 1980s is observed. The combined assessment of ocean hydrography data and model results indicates that the expected anthropogenic weakening of the THC will remain within the range of natural variability during the next several decades.

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Details

Published: Sep 15, 2006
Vol/Issue: 19(18)
Pages: 4631-4637

Authors

M

M. Latif