Science Common Sense
1304 - How do ocean currents affect the climate of the land?
Ocean currents are like rivers in the ocean that move warm or cold water from one place to another. This moving water can affect the climate of the land near the ocean in several ways:
Warming or cooling the air: When warm water from the ocean hits the land, it warms the air, making the climate warmer. Cold water does the opposite, making the climate cooler.
Bringing rain or drought: Ocean currents can bring moisture to the land, causing rain and keeping the land green. If the currents are cold or dry, it can lead to drought.
Creating milder winters: In places where warm ocean currents meet the land, like Western Europe, the winters are milder because the warm water keeps the air from getting too cold.
So, ocean currents play a big role in shaping the climate of the land near the ocean.