Tracking OHC provides essential climate information—preface to the special topic on ocean heat content changes
Trenberth, K. E.. (2026). Tracking OHC provides essential climate information—preface to the special topic on ocean heat content changes. Advances in Atmospheric Sciences, doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00376-025-5008-2
| Title | Tracking OHC provides essential climate information—preface to the special topic on ocean heat content changes |
|---|---|
| Genre | Article |
| Author(s) | Kevin E. Trenberth |
| Abstract | The author's career evolution from meteorology to climate science underscores the ocean's role as the planet's primary heat sink. While Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs) drive immediate weather, Ocean Heat Content (OHC) is the definitive metric for global warming, absorbing over 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gases. Through tools like the Argo program and satellite altimetry, researchers track how this heat penetrates deep waters and contributes to sea-level rise. Understanding these ocean-atmosphere dynamics is critical for predicting intensifying climate extremes, including droughts, wildfires, and catastrophic flooding. |
| Publication Title | Advances in Atmospheric Sciences |
| Publication Date | Jan 9, 2026 |
| Publisher's Version of Record | https://doi.org/10.1007/s00376-025-5008-2 |
| OpenSky Citable URL | https://n2t.net/ark:/85065/d7x92gtx |
| OpenSky Listing | View on OpenSky |
| CGD Affiliations | CGDAO |