Multi-annual variability of a new proxy-constrained modeled AMOC from 1450-1780 CE

The ongoing discussion about the AMOC slowdown over the 21^st century requires a detailed understanding of preindustrial AMOC variability. Here, we present a surface nudging technique to reconstruct the AMOC variability during the Little Ice Age from 1450–1780 CE. The AMOC reconstruction is based on a 10-member ensemble ocean model simulation nudged to proxy-reconstructed sea surface temperature. This approach validates and improves existing knowledge of the AMOC variability, showing that the AMOC slowdown under stable atmospheric CO₂ conditions is mainly driven by a 4 to 7 year lagged effect of surface heat flux associated with the North Atlantic Oscillation.