Major Ocean Shift 'Kuroshio' Brings Changes to Weather

TOKYO, May 13 (News On Japan) - The Japan Meteorological Agency announced has that the Kuroshio Large Meander, a phenomenon that has lasted for 7 years and 9 months, is expected to come to an end. The agency is urging people to stay updated, noting that changes in the Kuroshio Current may affect both fish species and fishing grounds.

The impact of the Kuroshio Meander extends beyond the fishing industry. One major effect is the rise in sea level. During typhoons in 2017 and 2019, areas like Shimizu Ward in Shizuoka City experienced flooding caused by storm surges, which were partly attributed to the meander. When seawater temperatures rise, thermal expansion occurs, leading to elevated sea levels that increase the risk of flooding. While the direct cause of such disasters is usually a typhoon, the meander contributes to the heightened risk, the agency announced on May 9th.

According to senior researcher Miyama at the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, sea levels along the coast of Shizuoka Prefecture can rise by about 20 to 30 centimeters above normal. A comparison of average sea surface temperatures shows that in May 2024, the Kuroshio Meander is visible as a red line, while in May 2025, the red area is barely visible, indicating conditions have returned closer to average. This suggests that the meander is indeed subsiding.

Higher sea surface temperatures also lead to more water evaporation, contributing to muggy summer conditions and more intense rainfall during heavy storms. These changes directly affect daily life and disaster preparedness.

As the Kuroshio Large Meander appears to be ending, the focus now shifts to what comes next. Because the ocean and weather are deeply interconnected, it is difficult to isolate a single factor. Ongoing observation of the long-term impacts of the meander, as well as the changes resulting from its end, will be essential.

Source: SBSnews6

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