Question

Trace the origin and flow of the Gulf Stream. What is the effect of this current on the coasts of North America and Western Europe?

Answer 1

Gulf Stream – The Gulf Stream is one of the largest warm currents. It originates from the Gulf of Mexico (about 20°N) and moves in a north-easterly direction along the eastern coast of North America. The average speed is about 33 km per day and its average width is -about 70 km. Under the impact of the Westerlies, this warm current reaches the western coast of Europe (about 70°N latitude). The general direction of flow of the Gulf Stream, north of 30° N latitude, is northward. Near Newfoundland, its water mixes with the cold water of the Labrador Current, which forms very dense fog. The foggy conditions around Newfoundland hamper the navigation of ships. From here, the Gulf Stream moves north eastwards. This current gradually widens and its speed decreases. It becomes a prominent, slow-moving current known as the North Atlantic Drift. Near western Europe, it splits into two parts. One part moves northwards, past UK, and Norway, while the other part is deflected southwards as the cold Canary Current. The warm water of the Gulf Stream modifies the weather conditions off the eastern coast of North America and the western coast of Europe.