Monsoon Influence on the Island Mass Effect Around the Maldives and Sri Lanka

The monsoon circulation in the Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) is unique since it develops response to bi-annual reversing monsoonal winds, with ocean currents mirroring this change through directionality and intensity. interaction between topographic features have implications for development of Island Mass Effect (IME) NIO. IME NIO characterized by areas high chlorophyll concentrations identified remote sensing be located around Maldives Sri Lanka was observed reverse monsoons downstream incoming current whilst a recirculation feature known as Dome (SLD) developed off east coast during Southwest Monsoon (SWM). To understand physical mechanisms underlying variability IME, numerical model based on Regional Modeling System (ROMS) implemented validated. able simulate regional used investigate three-dimensional structure terms its temperature velocity. Results revealed that downwelling processes were prevalent along both periods but applicable only latitudes above 4°N extent influence. For Maldives, atolls south 4°N, influenced equatorial currents. Around Lanka, upwelling responsible SWM strong NEM. In addition, there also differences intra-seasonal these processes. Overall, strength closely tied intensity found reach peak when at maximum.