Along-shelf current variability on the Catalan inner-shelf (NW Mediterranean)
Journal of Geophysical Research
Links
- More information: Publisher Index Page (via DOI)
- Open Access Version: Publisher Index Page
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
We examine the circulation over the inner shelf of the Catalan Sea using observations of currents obtained from three ADCPs within the inner-shelf (24 and 50 m depth) during March-April 2011. The along-shelf current fluctuations during that period are mainly controlled by the local wind stress on short time scales and by remote pressure gradients on synoptic time scales. Different forcing mechanisms are involved in the along-shelf momentum balance. During storm conditions, wind stress, sea level gradients and the non-linear terms dominate the balance. During weak wind conditions, the momentum balance is controlled by the pressure gradient, while during periods of moderate wind in the presence of considerable stratification, the balance is established between the Coriolis and wind stress terms. Vertical variations of velocity are affected by the strong observed density gradient. The increased vertical shear is accompanied by the development of stratified conditions due to local heating when the wind is not able to counteract (and destroy) stratification. The occasional influence of the Besòs river plume is observed in time scales of hours to days in a limited area in front of Barcelona. The area affected by the plume depends on the vertical extend of the fresher layer, the fast river discharge peak, and the relaxation of cross-shore velocities after northeast storm events. This contribution provides a first interpretation of the inner-shelf dynamics in the Catalan Sea.
Suggested Citation
Grifoll, M., Aretxabaleta, A., Espino, M., Warner, J., 2012, Along-shelf current variability on the Catalan inner-shelf (NW Mediterranean): Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 117, no. C9, C09027; 14 p., https://doi.org/10.1029/2012JC008182.
Study Area
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Along-shelf current variability on the Catalan inner-shelf (NW Mediterranean) |
| Series title | Journal of Geophysical Research |
| DOI | 10.1029/2012JC008182 |
| Volume | 117 |
| Issue | C9 |
| Publication Date | September 22, 2012 |
| Year Published | 2012 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | American Geophysical Union |
| Publisher location | Washington, D.C. |
| Contributing office(s) | Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center |
| Description | C09027; 14 p. |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Journal of Geophysical Research |
| Other Geospatial | Catalan Inner Shelf |