Generation Mechanisms of Mesoscale Eddies in the Mauritanian Upwelling Region

Abstract The physical processes driving the genesis of surface- and subsurface-intensified cyclonic anticyclonic eddies originating from coastal current system Mauritanian upwelling region are investigated using a high-resolution (∼1.5 km) configuration GFDL’s Modular Ocean Model. Estimating an energy budget for boundary reveals baroclinically unstable state during its intensification phase in boreal summer which is eddy generation within near-coastal region. mean poleward flow’s interaction with sloping topography induces enhanced vorticity, potential vorticity close to zero generated bottom layer. Flow separation at sharp topographic bends intensifies submesoscale structures low PV coalesce form vortices. A combination offshore Ekman transport horizontal advection determined amount South Atlantic Central Water (SACW) eddy. vortex relatively dense core will mode water eddy, subduct along isopycnals while propagating hence be shielded surface buoyancy forcing. Less contribution SACW promotes as composed lighter mass, causes stay closer exposed Simulated formed between rotational flow flowing current, being dominant source kinetic energy. All three types play key role exchange currents adjacent eastern shadow zone