In 2025, the annual upwelling event in the Gulf of Panama failed to occur for the first time, a phenomenon linked to weakened trade winds. Scientists from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) observed that the process, which normally cools coastal waters and supports fisheries, was disrupted, leading to significantly reduced temperature drops and productivity increases. This disruption highlights the vulnerability of tropical upwelling systems and the potential impact of climate change on coastal populations. Further research is necessary to understand the long-term ecological and socioeconomic implications of this unprecedented event.
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An Annual Blast of Pacific Cold Water Did Not Occur, Alarming Scientists, and it’s honestly a bit unsettling. Each year, like clockwork, a surge of cold water from the depths of the Gulf of Panama rises to the surface between January and April. This isn’t just a random phenomenon; it’s a crucial lifeline for the marine ecosystem in that area. The cold water, as much as 10 degrees Celsius (or 18 degrees Fahrenheit) colder than the surrounding surface water, is loaded with nutrients from decaying matter on the ocean floor. These nutrients are vital, fueling the food chain and supporting local fisheries and other wildlife.… Continue reading
Over twenty-five million people are under alert for severe weather and the possibility of flash flooding in the Northeast, and it’s a situation that immediately brings a lot of things to mind. You know, when we hear about these kinds of warnings, the first thought should always be that authorities are equipped and funded to keep everyone safe, right? But then you kind of pause, and… well, it’s a bit complicated.
The reality is that even when warnings are issued, the aftermath often falls to organizations like FEMA, which step in to offer support. And, well, that’s good. But then you start to wonder about the bigger picture: is this really becoming more frequent?… Continue reading
US Pressuring Other Countries To Abandon Clean Energy & Climate Goals is a deeply unsettling situation. It’s like watching a once-respected leader descend into actions that seem actively harmful, not just to their own nation, but to the entire world. The core of the issue feels rooted in a desire to cling to the past, to a system that benefits a select few at the expense of everyone else. It’s the familiar story of powerful interests resisting change, even when that change is clearly in the best interest of humanity.
The core concept of the problem, as I understand it, stems from this administration seemingly prioritizing fossil fuels and attempting to slow down or even reverse the global shift towards clean energy.… Continue reading
Following the Trump administration’s termination of the climate.gov website, a team of climate communication experts is working to resurrect its content through a new organization, climate.us. This new platform will not only offer accessible interpretations of climate science but may also provide climate-related services, such as aiding local governments. Led by former climate.gov managing editor Rebecca Lindsey, the team, composed of volunteers, is leveraging outside support and developing a crowdsourced fundraising drive. The goal is to provide the public with essential climate literacy, independent of government agencies, and continue the vital work that was previously accessible.
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Recent research indicates that the collapse of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc) is no longer a low-likelihood event, potentially occurring within decades. The study analyzed climate models extending to the years 2300 and 2500, revealing that under high-emission scenarios, Amoc collapse occurred in 70% of the models. Even with low emissions, a shutdown was still seen in 25% of the models, underscoring the urgency of reducing fossil fuel emissions. The researchers found that the tipping point where an Amoc shutdown becomes inevitable is likely to be passed in the next 10 to 20 years.
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A coalition of progressive organizations has announced a nationwide mobilization, “Make Billionaires Pay,” scheduled for September 20. The marches aim to connect various crises, including climate change and social injustice, by highlighting the role of ultra-wealthy individuals. Organizers assert that these billionaires prioritize profit over people, perpetuating systemic issues. The events will advocate for wealth taxation, an end to mass deportations, and a transition to renewable energy, with the flagship march in New York City coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly.
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US orders Orsted to halt offshore wind project, deepening industry woes is a serious blow, and the details paint a concerning picture of the energy landscape. It feels like a punch in the gut to the future, considering that a massive offshore wind project, potentially 80% complete with dozens of turbines in place, has been put on hold. The foundations are laid, the infrastructure is largely in place, and the project was on the cusp of generating clean energy. The only thing remaining to be done was to reap the benefits.
Now, there’s a mountain of questions. Who pays to dismantle the structures?… Continue reading
Rapid loss of Antarctic ice may be climate tipping point, scientists say. This is a headline that’s been circulating, and it’s a heavy one. The idea is that we might be crossing a point of no return when it comes to the melting of the Antarctic ice sheets. It’s not just about rising sea levels – though that’s a huge concern – but also about the cascading effects on the entire climate system. Some scientists believe we’re already beyond a critical threshold.
If we’re talking about a tipping point, then we’re likely past it. The writing has been on the wall for a long time, and many feel we’re already witnessing the consequences.… Continue reading
Scientists have observed a surprising slowdown in the melting of Arctic sea ice since 2005, despite continued increases in carbon emissions. This temporary reprieve is likely due to natural variations in ocean currents, which are limiting ice melting. While the rate of sea ice loss has slowed, the overall area has still halved since 1979, and scientists stress that the climate crisis remains a serious threat. Researchers caution that this slowdown is temporary, and melting is likely to accelerate again in the coming years, continuing to impact the region and contribute to global heating.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood