The overflow of cold and dense water through the depths of the Faroe Bank Channel is the densest contribution to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). A recent study led by ObsSea4Clim researcher Karin Margretha Húsgarð Larsen and published in Geophysical Research Letters, sets out to better understand this overflow and determine if it has changed over time.

Based on observational data collected since 1995, the study shows that the strength of the overflow in Faroe Bank Channel has remained remarkably stable, but that the overflow water has warmed over the years.

At the same time, the salinity increased, which prevented a significant decrease in the density of the overflow. After entrainment of warmer water downstream, the overflow contributed water of reduced density to the AMOC due to the non-linear effects of warming.

Curious to learn more? Read the publication in Open Access here in Geophysical Research Letters.

Congratulations to Karin Margretha Húsgarð Larsen and her team on this important research and publication!

Details:

Publication title: The Coldest and Densest Overflow Branch Into the North Atlantic is Stable in Transport, But Warming.

Authors: Karin Margretha Húsgarð Larsen, Bogi Hansen, Hjálmar Hátún, Guðrið Eriksdóttir Johansen, Svein Østerhus, Steffen Malskær Olsen

Published: 21 August 2024 in Geophysical Research Letters, Vol 51. No. 16.