Short time variability of the Atlantic inflow to the Barents Sea

Abstract

Current measurements along a section between Norway and Bear Island and results from a three-dimensional numerical model are presented. The results show that the water exchange between the Nordic Seas and the Barents Sea is highly variable on time scales of a few days. The general picture is dominated by frequent and large fluctuations in the current velocities, and an h o s t complete reversal of the current through parts the section may occur during 1-2 days. The structure of the current shows substantial and complex variations. The flow may secw in distinct, relatively narrow (50-100 km) cores of inflow and outflow, or in wider (150-200 km) areas of inflow and outflow. Due to the vertical homogeneity of the currents, the variability are expected to be a result of the variability in the sea surface elevation. The variability in the sea-level is dominated by rapid changing (in both time and space) atmospheric conditions (wind and pressure). Estimates of volume transports between 71% and 73'45'N give daily mean fluxes between 16 Sv into and 13 Sv out of the Barents Sea. During two subsequent days the absolute volume flux may change by almost 10 Sv.