Mesoscale eddy effect on the Strength of Shallow Meridional Overturning Circulation in the Indian Ocean
ID:1633
Poster Presentation
2027-01-15 17:00 (China Standard Time)
Session:Session 42 - Indian Ocean Under Stress: Dynamics, Biogeochemistry, and Productivity Shifts During Extreme Events
Abstract
The Indian Ocean Shallow Meridional Overturning Circulation (SMOC) significantly influences the Indian monsoon and global climate change by regulating heat balance. Using two reanalysis datasets and a series of ocean model experiments conducted at both high (eddy-resolving) and low resolutions, this study investigates how mesoscale eddies affect the strength of the Indian Subtropical Cell (STC), a key/major branch of the SMOC. The subtropical southern Indian Ocean (SSIO; 70°E-110°E, 35°S-20°S) serves as a significant subduction zone, characterized by high eddy kinetic energy, with its subduction rate closely linked to the intensity of the STC. In eddy-resolving models, the improved representation of mesoscale eddies enhances subduction rates, ultimately strengthening the simulation of STC strength through the northward spreading of subducted water masses. Eddy subduction contributes approximately 48.0% of the total subduction in eddy-resolving models, particularly in the subtropical southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO; 90°E–110°E, 35°S–20°S), where more eddies are present. Eddies accelerate changes in the mixed layer depth, resulting in a more pronounced mixed layer depth tendency term, thereby enhancing the subduction rate. This study enhances understanding of the impact of mesoscale processes on STC strength, shedding light on the mechanisms of tropical Indian Ocean circulation and its material-energy balance.
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Important Dates
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Jan 30
2026
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Mar 31
2026
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Apr 30
2026
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Apr 30
2026
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Jun 30
2026
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Aug 31
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Sep 15
2026
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Oct 15
2026
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Jan 12–15
2027
XMAS 2027
