Marine climate change over the eastern Agulhas Bank of South Africa

Abstract

The rate of change in the marine environment over the eastern Agulhas Bank along the south coast of South Africa (32-37° S, 20-30° E) is studied using reanalysis observations for 1900-2015 and coupled ensemble model projections for 1980-2100. Outcomes are influenced by resolution and time span: ∼1° datasets covering the whole period capture large-scale changes, while ∼0.5° datasets in the satellite era better distinguish the cross-shelf gradients. Although sea surface temperatures offshore are warming rapidly (0.05 °C yr-1since 1980), a trend toward easterly winds and a locally stronger Agulhas Current have intensified nearshore upwelling (-0.03 °C yr-1). The subtropical ridge is gradually moving poleward, leading to a drier climate.