Schwankungen im Wasserhaushalt der Ostsee

Abstract

The combined effects of fresh water influx, variations of sea level, and water exchange with the North Sea are analysed by simultaneously taking into account all components of the water volume of the Baltic Sea. The influence of the atmospheric circulation and of the variations of sea level are explained. The diseussion of the complete monthly water balance over a five years' period shows considerable departures from the annual variation of sea level. The surface currents in the Great and the Little Belt and in the Sound give a representative picture of the water exchange with the North Sea which is revealed to be more intensive than it was hitherto supposed to be. The secular fluctuations of the water volume are studied. Through the medium of precipitation and influx of fresh water the atmospheric circulation causes fluctuations in the outflow from the Baltic. On the other hand, the atmospheric circulation exercises a direct influence on the sea level and - owing to variations in the intensity of water exchange - an indirect one on the salinity. The salinity balance of the Baltic is evaluated. © 1954 Deutsches Hydrographisches Institut Hamburg.