Please select your home edition
Edition
Cyclops 2023 August LEADERBOARD

North Atlantic SST Anomalies noted

by Daria Blackwell 30 May 10:40 UTC
SST anomalies in compared with the averages © Ocean Cruising Club

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and other factors have been noted as deviating from the norms for the North Atlantic in the early months of 2023.

The graph from Climateanalyzer shows the temperature anomalies for the North Atlantic, with the black line representing the year 2023 so far. The ocean temperatures are running higher than normal for this time of year, being the highest ever in known satellite observation. Three marked areas on the graph are temperature peaks in March, April, and May. The ocean surface anomalies for late March show two ocean "hotspots" developed. One area centered around Cape Verde, and the other was further to the north. The peak anomalies in this period already exceeded 4 degrees Celsius.

Analysis by Severe Weather Europe explains what is happening. This part of the ocean is known to have an important connection to the Atlantic hurricane season and the other weather seasons ahead. It can have a profound effect on trade winds and storm patterns. This is not expected in an El Niño year, so we'll have to wait and see which wins out.

Perhaps the Australian prediction of only a 50% chance of an El Niño event this year is justified. There have been instances where global models were suggesting prolonged warming in the ocean, but an El Niño or La Niña event didn't materialise. This happened in 2014 when a strong El Niño was projected but did not occur that year, instead kicking in the following year.

In any case, global SSTs are showing a trend toward increasing ocean temperatures overall, which is not a good sign for the planet. The global oceans are currently running at record high levels, not seen since satellites began measuring SST (since 1980).

This trend is taking place alongside the declining levels of high-latitude sea ice measured during the satellite era as well. The magnitude of the current sea ice extent anomaly (negative) in the Antarctic clearly stands apart relative to any other year for May.

Record low Antarctic sea ice for the date and record warmth in the North Atlantic. Both indicate more energy than ever in the climate system.

This article has been provided by the courtesy of the Ocean Cruising Club

Related Articles

Norwegian scientists prove why beach cleans matter
Removal prevents the breakdown to microplastic fragments The removal of bigger pieces of plastic from coastlines prevents the breakdown to microplastic fragments that may stay in the water for years, giving scientists hope for polluted oceans. Posted on 24 Sep
The most anticipated NWP is underway!
Some old veterans showed up this year to navigate the Northwest Passage Just over 30 ships and sailing vessels are trying their best to navigate the Northwest Passage. Initial outlook for ice didn't give much comfort to all who are asking questions and expressing doubts. Posted on 20 Aug
Saoirse Circumnavigation Centenary celebration
The event commenced with the fleet gathering on Porto Santo first The ICC/RCC Cruise to Madeira to commemorate Conor O Brien's circumnavigation, one of the first by a yacht, was a great success. OCC was well represented. Posted on 18 Jul
Forecasters increase count for hurricane season
Citing high sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Colorado State University (CSU) and Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) forecasters have increased their forecasts for the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane season, citing high sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic. Posted on 17 Jul
Saoirse Cruise to Madeira departs Dublin Bay
June this year will mark the centenary of the departure from Royal Irish YC of Member Conor O Brien The Irish Cruising Club and Royal Cruising Club are hosting a rally in Madeira to celebrate the centenary of Conor O Brien's voyage aboard the yacht Saoirse. Posted on 26 Jun
World Ocean Day unites and rallies the world
Celebrate the life in the oceans, protect and restore our planet Celebrate the life in the oceans and take action on the 8th of June. Do it for the biodiversity. Posted on 4 Jun
WMO warns of looming record temperatures
A looming El Niño climate pattern could prompt a spike in global temperatures The development of an El Niño climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean this year is likely, with dangerously high temperatures and extreme weather events expected. Posted on 19 May
A review of climate change for distance cruisers
Prepared by the OCC with contributions from some of the most experienced sailors in the world For some time, OCC members have been observing and commenting on social media about the climate changes that are affecting decisions about passage making, storm avoidance, and seasonal boat storage. Posted on 11 May
Insights into 2023 Northwest Passage activity
The Government of Canada announced a one-year ban for pleasure craft and cruise vessels in 2020 There were no crossings by sail of the Northwest Passage during 2020 & 2021 due to the pandemic and the closing of the waterways to prevent any interactions with the local population of Canada. Posted on 1 May
OCC takes to the stage in Japan
Kirk Patterson is looking to expand the concept of cruising in Japanese waters OCC Port Officer Kirk Patterson features the Ocean Cruising Club in his exhibit area at the boat show March 23-26, 2023 in Yokohama Posted on 16 Apr
Ocean Safety 2021 - FOOTERNorth Sails Performance 2023 - FOOTERNoble Marine 2022 SW - FOOTER