Scientists Identify Unusual Ocean Cooling in Tropics

Scientists report an unusual cooling in the North Atlantic Ocean this year that has not occurred for years, possibly impacting tropical cyclone activity. The drop in temperature contrasts with the longstanding upward trend in ocean warmth. Experts believe this could influence the upcoming hurricane season in 2025 as changes in atmospheric conditions like the Bermuda High play a role.

This year, scientists have identified unusual changes in the tropics that have not occurred for several years, raising some eyebrows about future tropical cyclone activity. As global temperatures generally rise, the North Atlantic Ocean experienced a surprising cooling of around 2 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the previous year, according to a report by Fox Weather. This downward temperature shift has important implications for those who monitor tropical storm patterns.

In late April, ocean temperatures were nearly identical to those recorded six years ago. It is crucial to note, however, that while the North Atlantic is cooler than in 2022, its temperatures remain above the long-term averages from both 1982 to 2010 and 1991 to 2020. Thus, this year stands out against the backdrop of record-setting warmth experienced in recent seasons.

“One significant factor is the persistent Bermuda High, which has been fairly steadfast and centered northeast of the island nation of Bermuda,” said meteorologist Andrew Wulfeck. The Bermuda High’s consistent presence has reinforced easterly trade winds throughout the Atlantic. This situation has allowed for ocean upwelling, ultimately contributing to the drop in sea surface temperatures.

Cooler temperatures in the North Atlantic are worth paying attention to. If the Bermuda High weakens, temperatures could rebound, bringing warmer waters. Models from early May do not currently indicate a shift in this pattern, potentially leading to a below-average temperature preview for this year’s Atlantic hurricane season. Such a scenario is quite unusual for the region.

Typically, seasonal disturbances arise near Africa’s west coast. However, the current atmospheric setup may inhibit early-season tropical system formation. Other regions outside the North Atlantic are still warm enough to support tropical cyclone development, so activity is not completely off the table this season.

It is significant to note that the cooling in the North Atlantic is a stark anomaly amidst the broader trend of rising sea surface temperatures worldwide. In April, global ocean temperatures soared to 1.6 degrees above average, marking the second-highest on record. Last year’s warmer oceans notably influenced an active Atlantic hurricane season, which saw 11 storms develop. A Climate Central study revealed that “human-caused global warming elevated ocean temperatures and boosted all eleven storms’ intensities, increasing their highest sustained wind speeds by 9 to 28 mph.”

Understanding these crucial climate dynamics, especially the impact of our warming planet on tropical storms and hurricanes, is essential. Educating ourselves and others about these pressing issues will be critical. Such awareness can drive local action to address the challenges posed by climate change.

This year’s unusual cooling in the North Atlantic Ocean raises significant questions about tropical cyclone activity in the upcoming season. The relationship between atmospheric patterns, like the Bermuda High, and ocean temperatures indicates a unique climate situation. While the overall trend of warming persists globally, the localized cooling could delay early tropical storm formation. Efforts to understand and communicate these changes are vital as they hold implications for future weather patterns and climate action.

Original Source: www.thecooldown.com