Scientists Warn of ‘Ocean Burp’ as Massive Heat Reservoir Found Beneath Southern Ocean

Scientists have identified a vast pocket of trapped heat beneath the Southern Ocean, calling it a “thermal time bomb” capable of reigniting global warming even after emissions decline. This hidden fireball, built up over centuries of human activity, could eventually resurface, unleashing a burst of heat that reverses decades of climate progress.

The Ocean’s Hidden Role in Climate Stability

For more than a century, the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica has acted as Earth’s cooling vault, absorbing over 90% of the planet’s excess heat and nearly a quarter of its carbon dioxide emissions. By storing this energy deep below the surface, it has shielded the planet from the worst effects of climate change, tempering extreme weather and slowing ice melt. Yet, new findings suggest this balance may not hold indefinitely.

The ‘Burp Phase’ of Global Warming

Research from the University of Victoria and German climate scientists reveals that as global emissions eventually decline, the ocean may begin to release its stored heat in a sudden “burp” effect. Model simulations using the UVic v2.9 climate system show that after centuries of cooling, the trapped warmth could re-emerge, sparking an abrupt temperature rise similar in intensity to the industrial-era warming phase. Crucially, this spike could occur even without a significant increase in atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Mechanics of the Oceanic Heat Release

The process begins when ocean circulation patterns change. Once, cold deep water rose to the surface, but now, heat is being forced downward as melting ice and stronger sunlight penetrate the upper layers. Over time, this creates a massive subsurface heat reservoir. As atmospheric temperatures eventually fall, the heat stored in the depths will begin to move upward again, entering the atmosphere and driving another period of global warming.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The Southern Ocean has absorbed over 90% of excess heat generated by human activity.
• Scientists call the future heat release scenario the ‘Burp Phase’.
• Research from the University of Victoria used the UVic v2.9 climate model.
• This phenomenon could trigger another century-long phase of rapid warming.

Global and Ecological Implications

The sudden release of deep-ocean heat could melt Antarctic sea ice, alter global weather systems, and disrupt marine ecosystems by changing oxygen and nutrient flows. Regions in the Southern Hemisphere—already vulnerable to droughts and cyclones—would face the gravest impacts. Experts warn that achieving Net Zero emissions may not guarantee immediate climate recovery, as the ocean’s delayed response could fuel new warming for generations to come.