Interannual Climate Variability

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The planned work seeks to investigate mechanisms of Tropical Atlantic Variability (TAV) using the CCM coupled to an ocean mixed layer model. Three process-oriented experiments are proposed: (i) Air-sea Feedback Experiment. This will test important positive feedback processes in the tropical Atlantic region. In particular, the PIs will determine whether or not, wind-induced heat flux is a major contributing factor to seasonal-to-decadal variability in the tropical Atlantic. (ii) Remote Influence Experiment. This will quantify the magnitude and location of the strongest remote influence from Pacific ENSO on TAV. The PI will examine how the remote influence of ENSO interacts with local air-sea feedbacks in TAV. (iii) Ocean Process Experiment. This will explore the effect of oceanic processes on TAV. The PI will investigate how oceanic heat advection by mean currents and by anomalous Ekman flow interacts with coupled processes in tropical AtlanticThe work is important because it will enhance basic understanding on low frequency climate variability in the Tropical Atlantic. Such an understanding is fundamental for making improved climate forecasts for the region, this has societal benefits.