Counterarguments to Research Article "Targeted artificial ocean cooling to weaken tropical cyclones would be futile"

In the research article “Targeted artificial ocean cooling to weaken tropical cyclones would be futile,” Hylwiak and Nolan present several arguments against the effectiveness and practicality of ocean cooling technologies. However, these points can be challenged while maintaining an optimistic view of the potential benefits of such technologies, particularly as outlined in patent number US 20130038063 A1.

Counterarguments to Researchers' Points:

1. Effectiveness of Ocean Cooling: The researchers argue that targeted cooling might not significantly impact cyclone intensity due to the vastness of ocean systems. However, advancements in technology, as described in patent US 20130038063 A1, suggest innovative methods for localized cooling that could create significant temperature differentials, thus influencing cyclone formation and intensity. Smaller, more concentrated efforts might yield measurable effects that larger, less targeted approaches could overlook.

2. Implementation Challenges: While the researchers point out logistical challenges in deploying ocean cooling systems, emerging technologies offer increasingly feasible solutions. The development of autonomous drones and floating devices, as outlined in the patent, could streamline the process, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Additionally, local partnerships with coastal communities can enhance operational logistics, making implementation more practical.

3. Environmental Impact: The researchers raise concerns about unintended ecological consequences of ocean cooling. However, the patent highlights a careful design approach that considers environmental factors, allowing for targeted interventions that minimize disruption to marine ecosystems. By incorporating real-time monitoring and adaptive management strategies, potential negative impacts can be effectively mitigated.

4. Scalability and Adaptability: The researchers suggest that the technology may not be scalable to the size of the problem. However, patent US 20130038063 A1 proposes modular systems that can be deployed incrementally based on specific regional needs and cyclone forecasts. This flexibility allows for adaptive responses tailored to different environments, enhancing the overall effectiveness of ocean cooling efforts.

5. Potential for Innovation: Finally, dismissing ocean cooling as futile undermines the potential for innovation in climate intervention technologies. Patent US 20130038063 A1 represents a step forward in climate engineering, opening avenues for research and development that could lead to breakthroughs not only in cyclone mitigation but also in broader climate change solutions.

Conclusion:

While the researchers raise valid concerns regarding the limitations of targeted artificial ocean cooling, they overlook the promising advancements outlined in patent US 20130038063 A1. By focusing on innovative, adaptable, and environmentally conscious approaches, we can harness the potential of ocean cooling technologies to mitigate the impacts of tropical cyclones and contribute to broader climate resilience strategies. With continued research and collaboration, these technologies could play a vital role in safeguarding communities vulnerable to extreme weather events.

Link to article: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362794451_Targeted_artificial_ocean_cooling_to_weaken_tropical_cyclones_would_be_futile

Citation and Abstract:

TY - JOUR

AU - Hlywiak, James

AU - Nolan, David

PY - 2022/08/19

SP - 185

N2 - Proposals to use technology to cool sea surface temperatures have received attention for the potential application of weakening a tropical cyclone ahead of landfall. Here, application of an ocean-mixing aware maximum potential intensity theory finds that artificial ocean cooling could drastically weaken tropical cyclones over high sea surface temperature and deep ocean mixed layer environments, especially for fast storm motion speeds. In contrast, realistic mesoscale numerical simulations reveal that massive regions - the largest evaluated here contains a volume of 2.1 × 104 km3 and a surface area of 2.6 × 105 km2 - of artificially cooled ocean waters could weaken a tropical cyclone two days before landfall by 15% but only under the most ideal atmospheric and oceanic conditions. Thus, the fundamental theory provides an unreachable upper-bound that cannot be attained even by expending vast resources. Weakening tropical cyclones artificially through cooling the surface ocean would require massive regions of ocean to be cooled for a modest effect, suggest simulations with a realistic mesoscale ocean-atmosphere model.

T1 - Targeted artificial ocean cooling to weaken tropical cyclones would be futile

VL - 3

DO - 10.1038/s43247-022-00519-1

JO - Communications Earth & Environment

ER -