Interaction between low-level jet and sea surface temperature gradient in the Carolina Capes
- North Carolina State Univ., Raleigh, NC (United States)
The continental shelf off the Carolina coast is a preferred region of formation of low-level jet, coastal fronts and cyclones. During winter, the sharp contrast between the warm and moist air over the coastal waters and the cold and dry air over the continent forms an intense baroclinic zone along the coast. This baroclinic zone is often enhanced by a cold-air damming to the east of the Appalachian mountains. On the other hand, coastal waters, particularly the inner- and mid-shelf waters in the Carolina Capes are strongly affected by winds and surface cooling. According to these studies, the most energetic subtidal variance of midshelf circulation occurs between 2 and 10 days which coincide with the energy peaks of local surface winds. A fundamental question is whether or not mesoscale atmospheric systems are effectively coupled to the ocean circulation and frontal features over the shelf. This question will be the focus of this study.
- OSTI ID:
- 467695
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9409461--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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