The End of the 'Gulf Stream'?

THE Gulf Stream currents that give Britain its mild climate have weakened dramatically, offering the first firm scientific evidence of a slowdown that threatens the country with temperatures as cold as Canada’s.


So reported the Times back in 2005 (and the Guardian). But is this the case?  Scientists this year concluded that despite the 'unusual' temperature fluctuations (the UK in 2009 had experienced the worst snow fall in nearly 20 years and in January this year the UK temperatures plummeted their lowest in 50 years!) there is 'no evidence' to suggest that the Gulf Stream is weakening.  This maybe the case.  Freak temperatures disruptions can develop without warning.  


While I don't profess to know whether there is any validity in either the evidence for or against the notion of whether the Gulf Stream is weakening, I can't help but wonder whether the climatologist are necessary correct.


The UK is currently experiencing the earliest 'significant' snowfall in 17 years and more heavy snow is being forecast for the next couple of days.  Whether this is a coincidence I don't know but it does make me wonder if there is any basis in the Mayan Predictions for 2012