Articles tagged with Ocean Currents
A new study suggests that hurricanes can propel underwater currents with enough force to dig up the seabed, potentially creating underwater mudslides and damaging pipes or other equipment. Researchers warn that major oil leaks from damaged pipelines could have irreversible impacts on the ocean environment.
The Aqua satellite captured a detailed image of the oil slick in sunglint, revealing an uneven shape with varying shades of bright gray-beige. The satellite imagery is being used to track the spread of the oil spill and inform fishing regulations.
Scientists have discovered a massive Southern Ocean current with a volume equivalent to 40 Amazon Rivers near the Kerguelen Plateau. The current carries dense, oxygen-rich water that sinks near Antarctica to the deep ocean basins further north.
A mega-flood from a giant ice sheet in North America triggered the Younger Dryas cold snap, causing Europe's temperatures to plummet. Fresh water mixing with the Arctic Ocean led to the shutdown of the Gulf Stream, resulting in prolonged glacial temperatures.
Researchers found barnacle communities flourish in vertical-upwelling zones with strong currents, contradicting previous theories. The study's findings suggest that barnacles latch onto rock walls due to constant bouncing against rocky surfaces, ultimately leading to the formation of thriving crustacean populations.
A joint study by American and Kazakhstani scientists reveals that reducing adult mortality is key to recovering beluga sturgeon populations. The study suggests that limiting the take of adult and subadult sturgeon will contribute more to population growth than hatchery supplementation.
Large amplitude internal waves can reach heights of 150 meters in the South China Sea, affecting surface wave fields and observable from space. The Earth's rotation modifies these waves as they travel across the deep ocean basin, influencing their steepening process.
The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine has received a $100,000 grant from the Rockefeller Foundation to trace its alumni and build an influential network of global health practitioners. The project aims to identify current leaders in low- and middle-income countries and strengthen capacity building.
Tropical Storm Magda is expected to bring gusty winds of up to 93 mph and heavy rainfall to coastal areas in North Western Australia. The storm's center is predicted to make landfall on January 22, with the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.
A study confirms the long-standing idea that animals such as lemurs and flying foxes arrived in Madagascar via natural rafts blown out to sea. The research, published in Nature, uses a three-year computer simulation of ancient ocean currents to support the theory, which was previously introduced by George Gaylord Simpson.
The Sea Node system successfully completed the Trident Warrior 2009 exercise, showcasing its ability to improve situational awareness and reduce operator workload. The system provides collaborative applications for geo-locating coastal radars and enhances existing AN/SSX-1 Electronic Support systems.
The study found that changes in the Bering Strait affected ocean currents, causing summer temperatures to oscillate between warmer and colder phases in North America and Greenland. This led to dramatic tipping points for climate patterns, especially in the Arctic.
A new MMS study examines the Loop Current and its effects on the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, revealing a connection between upper- and lower-layer currents and water mass characteristics. The research provides valuable insights for improving forecasting and predicting the impact of the Loop Current on oil and gas operations.
A new Yale University study suggests that current CO2 levels could lead to a greater temperature increase than previously thought, with temperatures potentially rising by 3 degrees Celsius or more. The research found that a relatively small rise in atmospheric CO2 was associated with substantial global warming during the mid- and early...
Scientists estimate a decline in the oceans' ability to absorb manmade carbon, potentially impacting future climate. The study found that the proportion of fossil-fuel emissions absorbed by the oceans since 2000 may have declined by up to 10%.
A team of scientists argue that slowing global warming through REDD policies may not fully protect biodiversity. The researchers suggest that careless implementation could lead to the degradation of high-biodiversity areas instead.
UC San Diego engineers develop algorithms for swarms of ocean robots to track ocean currents, predict oil spill movement, and improve models. The system will enable local agencies to deploy robots quickly to monitor spills and aid in the development of marine protected areas.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography are developing autonomous underwater explorers, or AUEs, to trace small-scale ocean processes vital to tiny marine inhabitants. The miniature robots will provide new information about marine protected areas, harmful algal blooms, and oil spills.
A 14,000-year reconstruction of the past climate at Maxwell Bay in Antarctica reveals unprecedented regional synchronous warming and ice loss. The study suggests that current warming is linked to atmospheric trends associated with global climate change.
Typhoon Mirinae is expected to make landfall in the northern Philippines on October 31, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The storm's moderate rainfall rate was measured by NASA's TRMM satellite, which analyzed rainfall patterns before the storm hit.
Two juvenile loggerhead turtles have been tracked with satellite-linked data loggers since August, providing insights into their behavior and habitat. The researchers are now working to develop new ways to avoid catching turtles in fishing gear, using the data to improve conservation efforts.
A massive genetic analysis of over 1,500 whale DNA samples has revealed new insights into the population dynamics and relationships of Southern Hemisphere humpback whales. The study provides a detailed understanding of gene flow between populations and highlights the complex interactions within marine ecosystems.
Researchers at Stony Brook University found that rip currents at East Hampton Village Beach lasted on average a little over one minute, posing a risk to swimmers. The study's findings suggest that seismometers can be used to measure wave patterns that may lead to rip currents.
Tropical Depression 18W made landfall in Guam and dissipated, bringing gusty winds and heavy downpours. Tropical Storm Parma intensified into a typhoon after absorbing 18W's leftover energy, with sustained winds near 75 knots (86 mph).
The new ocean drilling program will explore the 'deep biosphere', investigating life beyond 1,600 meters below the seafloor and the impact of CO2 on climate. Scientists hope to gain insights into Earth's past, present, and future by analyzing core samples and developing new technologies.
A University of Washington Seaglider achieved a record-breaking 9-month, 5-day mission in the Pacific Ocean, covering over 3,050 miles under its own power. The vehicle, propelled by its shape and dive maneuvers, surpassed previous endurance records for autonomous underwater vehicles.
A new analytical method developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen reveals a significant correlation between oxygen content in seawater and global cooling. The study indicates two periods in Earth's history with large increases in oxygen content, which led to temperature decreases and potentially enabled life in deep oceans.
Scientists from Stanford University and their international colleagues use cutting-edge technology to monitor the Gulf of Aqaba's surface currents, shedding light on its complex dynamics. The research helps environmental agencies respond to spills and minimize pollution, while also informing large-scale water projects.
Researchers found that focusing of waves by shoals and currents can increase the likelihood of freak waves by up to 10 times. Freak waves are extreme waves measuring roughly three times the size of average wave height, posing significant risks for shipping and navigation in coastal areas.
A new scientific discussion paper highlights the profound impact of human activity on the world's oceans, with carbon emissions affecting marine biological processes and threatening food security. The study warns that rates of physical change in the oceans are unprecedented and may lead to major shifts in marine ecosystems.
Researchers created a detailed 'motion picture' of Earth's last major warming event, allowing them to identify key drivers and potential consequences of abrupt climate changes. The study's results provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between ocean currents, atmospheric carbon dioxide, and subsurface heat.
Research suggests that major changes in ocean current systems can occur gradually, rather than suddenly, and may take place over centuries or even millennia. The study's findings confirm the accuracy of global climate models and provide valuable insights into how the Earth may respond to its current warming.
The NSF-funded project will create a long-term index of Agulhas Current transport using in situ measurements and satellite data. This will provide valuable insights into seasonal to decadal variability and its impact on global climate patterns.
Researchers at UBC found that warmer, more acidic waters enable Purple Ochre Sea Stars to grow twice as fast as normal over 10 weeks. This discovery complicates current assumptions about climate change's impact on marine species.
Researchers used sophisticated floats to show that much of the cold Labrador seawater is diverted eastward by the time it reaches Massachusetts, rather than following a continuous loop with warm surface waters. This finding may affect global warming forecasters and climate signal measurement in the deep ocean.
Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Duke University have discovered a new pathway for cold water to flow southward in the North Atlantic. The study used field observations and computer models to find that much of the Labrador Sea Water follows an interior path, not along the traditional deep western boundary current.
A new set of ocean observing data enhances the ability to track probable paths of victims and drifting survivor craft, improving search and rescue efforts. The data feeds into Coast Guard servers to improve environmental observations and supports oil spill response, harmful algal bloom monitoring, and water quality assessments.
The Australian ocean glider, launched in February, successfully completed a two-month, 1,500 kilometre voyage to measure changes in the East Australian and Leeuwin Currents. The glider's sensors measured temperature, salinity, oxygen, and turbidity, providing valuable insights into Australia's $94 million marine observing network.
Establishing a public trust doctrine for federal waters could provide a practical legal framework for regulating ocean-based commerce while protecting marine species and habitats. The doctrine would obliges governments to manage natural resources in the best interests of citizens, without sacrificing future generations' needs.
Dr. Roland Romeiser, a UM Rosenstiel School researcher, has been awarded a $500,000 ONR grant to develop 'along-track InSAR,' a new satellite technique that maps surface currents in rivers and oceans. This technology will aid in monitoring global river runoff and bathymetric changes.
Lobster traps equipped with temperature sensors provide valuable data on ocean circulation and processes in the Gulf of Maine. The eMOLT program, a collaboration between NOAA, lobstermen, and marine science students, aims to improve our understanding of ocean currents, pollution dispersal, and marine life distribution.
Scientists propose that rapid sea level rises over the past 5 million years led to habitat compression, causing species extinction locally. A study of 325 mammal species mapped their ranges across the peninsula, revealing a 600-kilometer gap with 30% fewer species than expected.
Stanford researchers developed a computer simulation to predict the movement of fish farm waste in the ocean. The model, called SUNTANS, reveals that wastes can travel greater distances and in higher concentrations than previously assumed.
The University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science has received a $3.75 million grant from the Office of Naval Research to support satellite-based research in the Western Pacific Ocean. The project aims to better understand typhoons, internal waves, and coastal processes using satellite data.
Researchers created MARGO, a new quantitative tool that reconstructs sea surface temperatures during the Last Glacial Maximum. The study provides more exhaustive data than previous models and helps identify aspects to improve climate modeling, particularly in representing temperature gradients and ocean currents.
A recent study published in Science reveals that fish produce a significant fraction of the oceans' calcium carbonate, affecting seawater's pH balance. The researchers estimate three to 15 percent of marine calcium carbonate is produced by fish, which can dissolve rapidly and release into the deep ocean.
Researchers used historical data and ice core analysis to calculate the relationship between global temperature and sea level over 2000 years. The new model predictions indicate a sea level rise of 0.9-1.3 meters, exceeding IPCC estimates due to faster-than-expected ice sheet melting.
A group of international doctors describe human rights abuses against Palestinian residents in the West Bank and Gaza, including delays in accessing hospitals and increased commuting times. The doctors report on the devastating impact of these abuses, which have been exacerbated by recent hostilities.
Research focuses on solar magnetic flux, which is linked to cosmic ray boosts. The study also investigates iceberg scrapes causing glacial quakes in Greenland. Additionally, scientists examine the renewed growth of atmospheric methane, which plays a significant role in ozone layer chemistry.
Researchers have found large coral reefs growing in cold, deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean, up to 1,000 meters below the surface. These cold-water corals thrive in areas with strong tidal currents and nutrient-rich seawater, allowing them to feed on algae and zooplankton.
Studies reveal that solar forcing has negligible impact on recent global warming, while a declining Arctic sea ice cover threatens an ice-free North Pole. A new model also explains the behavior of slow earthquakes by simulating random fault slip.
Researchers found massive swirling structures called gyres in the Southern Ocean, trapping pollutants and nutrients. These features play a crucial role in pumping heat poleward, moderating the planet's extremes in climate.
Scientists have made significant progress in understanding the impact of dust on climate, with a new study using CALIPSO data to map global dust distribution. Another study found that a new Earth System Model can better represent global climate effects in the Amazon basin. Additionally, researchers have identified key dust sources in A...
Researchers use acoustic tags to track Atlantic salmon migration, finding valuable information about fish movements and survival rates. Early data suggest many young salmon are surviving their journey to the Labrador Sea and coastal West Greenland.
A new study predicts that acidic ocean conditions could significantly harm the earliest stages of marine life, including a 25% decline in sea urchin fertilization success by 2100. The researchers warn that this could have far-reaching consequences for ecosystem viability and key species like lobsters and corals.
A new University of Florida study reveals that the Isthmus of Panama was formed by a Central American Peninsula colliding with South America, contradicting previous evidence. The research uses geologic, chemical and biologic methods to date rocks and fossils found in the Gaillard Cut of the Panama Canal.
A study on leatherback turtle migration patterns reveals that they respond to strong ocean currents with rapid movements to maintain their southern route. The researchers identified specific high-use areas occupied by the turtles, providing crucial information for conservation efforts.
Scientists studied carbon export in the deep Arctic Ocean, finding that most particulate organic carbon enters from surrounding continental margins. Meanwhile, research on Venus's magnetic field reveals new structures and turbulence patterns within its induced magnetosphere. Additionally, Antarctic sea ice forms unique, organism-rich l...
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that internal waves can generate intense currents when traveling along continental slopes, lifting sediments and contributing to ocean mixing. These currents, called boundary flows, also play a role in larger ocean currents by bringing cold water up from the deep ocean.
A new study found that low-dose exposure to domoic acid during fetal brain development can lead to epileptic seizures and behavioral abnormalities in California sea lions. The toxin is produced by harmful algal blooms, which are increasingly common in the sea lions' habitat.