Seasonal Predictability of Global and North American Coastal Sea Surface Temperature and Height Anomalies

A Linear Inverse Model (LIM) is constructed to evaluate predictability of seasonal sea surface temperature (SST) and height (SSH) anomalies over the ice-free global ocean. Its ensemble-mean hindcast skill also compared that North American Multi-Model Ensemble (NMME) for 1982–2010. Both have similar dominant modes SST variability, but regional NMME somewhat higher in many locations. However, LIM has considerably more Atlantic Southern Ocean SSH skill. Skill generally comparable along coastline, greater several highly productive coastal zones East Coast tide gauge stations. Diverse, often predictable ENSO events drive teleconnections providing Pacific US West Coast. Predictability associated with Gulf Stream strength modulation. Overall, shows potential prediction ocean conditions.