Using a high resolution 14C chronology, δ13C values and organic carbon content, from loess/paleosol and peat profiles in China, we can demonstrate century scale warm-cold East Asian monsoon paleoclimatic fluctuation events and significant precipitation variability within the last deglaciation. The major climatic events recognized are the Boiling (1 300-12 500 a B.P.), Older Dryas (12 500-11 750 a B.P.), Allerod (11 750-11 200 a B.P.) and Younger Dryas (11 200-10 000 a B.P.). The stratigraphic structure of the last deglaciation sediments is characterized by frequent changes in sedimentation phases reflecting climatic instability. These high frequency, rapid climatic events can correlate with fluctuations recorded by sea surface temperatures in the Norwegian Sea. This indicates a paleoclimate teleconnection between polar, high latitude areas and East Asian monsoon areas through westerlies and the related atmospheric pressure system.
- East Asian monsoon paleoclimatic fluctuation
- Last deglaciation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Earth and Planetary Sciences(all)