Persistent Observations of Upper Ocean Dynamics and theEvolution of the Arabian Sea Mini Warm Pool
Abstract
During the spring intermonsoon strong, shallow stratification driven by fresh, buoyant inflow from the Bay of Bengal, springtime warming and, perhaps, variability in upper ocean extinction coefficient, work together to form the Arabian Sea #mini-warm pool# (ASMWP). This area of warm sea surface temperatures is believed to amplify air-sea feedbacks and play an important role in monsoon onset. The proposed effort focuses on understanding the roles of regional circulation, atmospheric forcing and local upper ocean dynamics in driving the formation, evolution and eventual destruction of the ASMWP. Long-endurance SGX gliders will be used to conduct sustained, multi-month surveys of key elements of the ASMWP system. Long-standing collaborations with researchers in Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives will facilitate: (i) extension of a three-year timeseries of sections extending south from Sri Lanka, capturing exchangebetween the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, (ii) January-August occupation of a section focused on characterizing meridional contrasts in ASMWP evolution and destruction, and (iii) oceanic boundary layer measurements conducted as part of the ASTraL intensive observing periods. Sampling plans may evolve in response to the overarching science plan developed by the ASTraL team, and we anticipate working with fellow ASTral investigators to optimize use of the group#s observational resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 12, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312085
Entities
People
- Craig Lee
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Washington