Encyclopedia Titanica

Icebergs Ahead!: How Weather Doomed The Titanic

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Megan E. Linkin discusses how unusual weather patterns in early 1912 contributed to the Titanic disaster. Strong northwesterly winds, influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), pushed an abnormally high number of icebergs into the Titanic’s path. A calm sea and clear skies on the night of the sinking made spotting icebergs more challenging, as the lack of waves limited visibility.

by Megan E. Linkin
Key Points

  • Iceberg Hazard: Strong northwesterly winds before Titanic’s voyage pushed icebergs southward into the shipping lanes.
  • North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO): A positive NAO phase increased cold, northwesterly winds, leading to extensive sea ice.
  • Calm Weather’s Impact: Calm seas reduced visible breakwater around icebergs, making them harder for lookouts to spot.
  • Historical Consequences: This weather pattern contributed to one of history’s worst maritime disasters, influencing future maritime safety laws.

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