Stationary Rossby waves in western boundary current extensions

Abstract

Considers whether temporally growing, spatially damped long waves in western boundary current extensions exist. Uses an analytical model to investigate the structure of the respones in the ocean interior to an arbitary forcing localized on the western boundary. An eddy resolving general circulation model is then used to reproduce the wind driven circulation and study the behaviour of the waves in more detail. Barotropic numerical studies indicate that asymmetries in either the wind stress or the western boundary current geometry lead to stationary Rossby waves in a western boundary current extension. Observations in the Brazil/Malvinas confluence region appear to be reflected in the baroclinic numerical studies. Notes how the long wave pattern breaks down into a series of mesoscale eddies. (C.J.U.)