The North Hemisphere Heat Absorption Trend: Earth’s Energy Balance in Decline
For years, it was assumed that both hemispheres of the planet reflected similar amounts of solar radiation back into space, maintaining a delicate climate balance. However, data from NASA satellites collected between 2001 and 2024 show the opposite: the north retains more energy than the south. This finding raises a troubling question about the future of Earth’s climate, as the change alters patterns of atmospheric circulation and global rainfall.
An Altered Balance of Solar Energy
Researchers found that the northern hemisphere is “darkening” faster, and therefore, absorbing more heat. This contrast did not exist in the early 21st century, indicating a recent acceleration in northern warming.
The northern hemisphere has experienced a very warm October, as seen in the image, with areas reaching record temperatures. 🟢: Warmer than normal.
Factors Behind the Change
Three processes stand out in the analysis:
– Decrease in aerosols that used to reflect light.
– Decrease in snow and ice, exposing dark surfaces that absorb energy.
– Increased water vapor in the atmosphere, trapping additional heat.
Although clouds influence the balance, their effect is not enough to compensate for these trends.
This energy imbalance could alter wind and ocean circulation, in addition to intensifying the warming and precipitation in the northern hemisphere. If the trend continues, extreme events such as droughts, floods, and storms could become more frequent and severe.
The Urgency of Observing and Acting
Scientists emphasize that it is still unclear whether clouds can restore the balance in the future. In the meantime, they recommend preparing strategies for adaptation, as this subtle but constant change threatens to reshape the planet’s climate in the coming decades.
Source: [Link to the original article]
