  Using the coupled climate model CLIMBER-3a, we investigate changes in sea
surface elevation due to a weakening of the thermohaline circulation (THC). In
addition to a global sea level rise due to a warming of the deep sea, this
leads to a regional dynamic sea level change which follows
quasi-instantaneously any change in the ocean circulation. We show that the
magnitude of this dynamic effect can locally reach up to ~1m, depending on the
initial THC strength. In some regions the rate of change can be up to 20-25
mm/yr. The emerging patterns are discussed with respect to the oceanic
circulation changes. Most prominent is a south-north gradient reflecting the
changes in geostrophic surface currents. Our results suggest that an analysis
of observed sea level change patterns could be useful for monitoring the THC
strength.

Atmospheric and Oceanic Physics;Geophysics