North Atlantic water density quickly changes AMOC strength

A new study reveals that changes in water density in the subpolar North Atlantic can rapidly impact the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). This could lead to significant climate shifts. Researchers found that density variations in the Labrador Sea, measured by the OSNAP instrument array, influence the AMOC's strength at mid-latitudes. These density changes, driven by atmospheric pressure, propagate southward, affecting the AMOC within a year. The findings suggest that monitoring subpolar water density could help predict AMOC strength. This research enhances understanding of the ocean's role in climate and could inform future ocean observation systems.