2025.06.16
Ten Topic: “Signs of Change in the Kuroshio Current 🌊 — Ryōfū-maru Captures the Ocean’s Flow Today”
~ After 7 Years and 9 Months, the Kuroshio Large Meander May Be Ending ~
The Kuroshio Current flows near the coast of Japan and acts as a “major artery of the sea,” influencing both the climate and marine life 🌐. Now, signs of a significant change are emerging in this powerful current.
Between May 31 and June 1, 2025, the Japan Meteorological Agency’s ocean observation vessel Ryōfū-maru 🚢 conducted a cross-current survey of the Kuroshio from the Kii Peninsula to off the coast of the Tokai region. The results revealed that the long-persisting Kuroshio Large Meander was no longer visible.
The Kuroshio Large Meander refers to a phenomenon in which the Kuroshio takes a pronounced detour to the south of its usual path. It began in the summer of 2017 and lasted for 7 years and 9 months. This meander has attracted attention due to its notable impact on sea surface temperatures, fisheries 🐟, and coastal weather conditions 🌡️.
The latest observations showed that a portion of the Kuroshio has separated off the Tokai coast and is now generally flowing eastward off Cape Shionomisaki, indicating that the large meander is in the process of dissolving.
The Japan Meteorological Agency will continue to monitor the Kuroshio closely to see whether it maintains this stable flow 🔍.
The movement of the ocean is deeply connected to our daily lives. Stay tuned for further developments in the Kuroshio’s path 👀
JMA Official Reports:
20250509_kuroshio_path2025.pdf
