O'Kane et al 2012.pdf (814.68 kB)
Southern Ocean Intrinsic and Forced Modes of Low Frequency
conference contribution
posted on 2023-05-23, 12:25 authored by Terence O'KaneTerence O'Kane, Matear, R, Chamberlain, MA, James RisbeyJames Risbey, Bernadette SloyanBernadette Sloyan, Horenko, IA coupled Ocean-Sea ice General Circulation Model (OGCM) is used to identify a Southern Ocean southeast Pacific intrinsic mode of low frequency variability. This mode is co-located with a major region of Sub-Antarctic Mode Water (SAMW) and Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW) formation. Using CORE data a comprehensive suite of experiments were carried out to elucidate excitation and amplification mechanisms of this intrinsic mode by low frequency forcing (ENSO, SAM) and stochastic forcing due to high frequency winds. Subsurface thermocline anomalies were found to teleconnect the Pacific and Atlantic regions of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC). The Pacific region of the ACC is characterised by intrinsic baroclinic disturbances that respond to both SAM and ENSO, while the Atlantic sector of the ACC is sensitive to higher frequency winds that act to amplify thermocline anomalies propagating downstream from the Pacific resonant with eastward travelling Rossby waves. This simulation study identifies plausible mechanisms that determine the predictability of the Southern Ocean climate on multi-decadal timescales.
History
Publication title
Proceedings of the 18th Australasian Fluid Mechanics Conference, AFMC 2012Editors
PA Brandner, BW PearcePagination
1-4ISBN
978-064658373-0Department/School
Institute for Marine and Antarctic StudiesPublisher
Australasian Fluid Mechanics SocietyPlace of publication
AustraliaEvent title
18th Australasian Fluid Mechanics Conference, AFMC 2012Event Venue
Launceston, AustraliaDate of Event (Start Date)
2012-12-03Date of Event (End Date)
2012-12-07Rights statement
Copyright 2012 The Authors.Repository Status
- Open