Dhaka, April 16 -- The critical Atlantic Ocean current system is significantly more likely to collapse than previously thought, according to new research.

Scientists describe the study as "very concerning", with potentially catastrophic consequences for Europe, Africa and the Americas, The Guardian reports.

The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc), a key component of the global climate system, is already at its weakest level in 1,600 years due to the climate crisis.

Warning signs of a possible tipping point were first identified in 2021, and scientists note the system has collapsed in the Earth's past.

Climate models used to project future changes in the Amoc have long produced widely varying results, ranging from little...