Why is the Southern Ocean dangerous?

The Southern Ocean, also known as the Antarctic Ocean, is known for its turbulent and dangerous waters. A combination of consistent and high winds, and the open expanse of the ocean create an environment that is ideal for gigantic waves.

Why is the Southern Ocean so stormy?

That the Southern Ocean is one of the most consistently windy stretches of water on Earth is largely due to heat and pressure. The equatorial regions receive the vertical blaze of the sun and so have an excess of heat.

What is the roughest ocean in the world?

Irminger Sea, between southern Greenland & Iceland The Irminger Sea is situated south of the Denmark Strait which separates Iceland from the east coast of Greenland by 250 miles of rough water. It is thought to be the windiest stretch of salt water on the globe and one of the stormiest places in the world.

Can you swim in the Southern Ocean?

There is no section of sea with a fiercer reputation than Cape Horn. Its waters are wild, its rocks are treacherous, its currents unpredictable. All of which makes the tip of South America one of the most challenging places to swim.

Are there sharks in the Southern Ocean?

No, there are no sharks in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. There is only one type of shark, the Greenland Shark, that is able to tolerate the…

How cold is the water off Antarctica?

The Antarctic Ocean’s freezing temperatures of 28.8 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 1.8 degrees Celsius) are lower than the freezing point of fish blood, which is about 30.4 degrees F (minus 0.9 degrees C), which would seem to suggest that all those fish should be frozen in their tracks.

What is the coldest water on Earth?

Antarctic bottom water
The major significance of Antarctic bottom water is that it is the coldest bottom water, giving it a significant influence on the movement of the world’s oceans. Antarctic bottom water also has a high oxygen content relative to the rest of the oceans’ deep waters.

Do great white sharks go to Antarctica?

These species, which are frequently found in shallow water, would struggle crossing the deep ocean surrounding the southernmost continent. Thus, no sharks in Antarctica… Closer to home, the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy has been witnessing what happens when sharks get too cold.