The Atlantic Ocean is teeming with life, mysterious dark waters with numerous wondrous creatures. Moreover, only 5% of the world’s oceans have been explored, leaving more than 90% a mystery to scientists. While most ocean elements are fascinating, some are cause for alarm. For instance, a temperature change has raised some questions. 

Changes in the Atlantic Ocean

It’s no surprise to many that scientists are warning about climate change, the result of notably increasing temperatures in recent years. Seemingly, each year brings hotter and more intense summers, with the past year seeing record highs. However, something has changed in the Atlantic Ocean. 

The Atlantic Ocean is Cooling

Scientists have discovered that the Atlantic Ocean has been dropping in recent months, “at a record speed.” The Atlantic Ocean has been 1 to 2 degrees cooler this time of year than is expected. While it seems like a small change, scientists aren’t sure why it’s happening, and that’s alarming. “We’ve gone through the list of possible mechanisms, and nothing checks the box so far,” explains Frans Philip Tuchen, a postdoctoral student at the University of Miami.

NOAA Data on the Atlantic Ocean

Since March of 2023, The Atlantic Ocean has been setting record highs thanks to strong El Niño weather patterns between 2023 and 2024. However, data from the NOAA shows the temperatures have been cooling since May, and La Niña has come earlier than normal, leading scientists to wonder if this is the cause of the temperature shift in the Atlantic Ocean. The transition usually takes place around September but has come early this year leaving the Atlantic Ocean and other bodies of water susceptible to other extreme temperature changes.