Collapse of critical Atlantic current is no longer low-likelihood, study finds

New modelling suggests the tipping point that makes an Amoc shutdown inevitable is likely to be passed within a few decades. Photograph: Henrik Egede-Lassen/Zoomedia/PA

The collapse of a critical Atlantic current can no longer be considered a low-likelihood event, a study has concluded, making deep cuts to fossil fuel emissions even more urgent to avoid the catastrophic impact.

The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc) is a major part of the global climate system. It brings sun-warmed tropical water to Europe and the Arctic, where it cools and sinks to form a deep return current. The Amoc was already known to be at its weakest in 1,600 years as a result of the climate crisis.