AMOC slowdown could boost California storms, cut Greenland snowfall

New research from the University of California, Riverside, published in Nature Communications, finds that a weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may intensify atmospheric rivers hitting California while reducing storm activity and snowfall over Greenland. Lead author Mohima Mimi explained, “It is well known that the AMOC is a big player in the world’s climate system, and that it is slowing down. What we didn’t know is exactly how the AMOC might impact atmospheric moisture and storms outside the Atlantic region.” The study predicts that stronger upper‑level winds will drive more moisture toward the West Coast, increasing flood risk, while the Arctic and Greenland experience fewer storms and slower ice accumulation. The model also points to more atmospheric rivers along South America’s east coast and around Antarctica under a high‑emissions scenario. Scientists have already observed signs of AMOC deceleration.