Turbulent Mixing and the Formation of an Intermediate Nepheloid Layer Above the Siberian Continental Shelf Break

Intermediate nepheloid layers (INLs) form important pathways for the cross-slope transport and vertical export of particulate matter, including carbon. While intermediate maxima in particle settling fluxes have been reported Eurasian Basin Arctic Ocean, direct observations turbid INLs above continental slope are still lacking. In this study, we provide first evidence an INL, coinciding with enhanced mid-water turbulent dissipation rates, over Laptev Sea summer 2018. Current velocity data show a period downslope flow depressed isopcynals, suggesting that is probably consequence presence unsteady lee wave. Similar events occur mostly during ice free periods, increasing frequency episodic future. The discovery INL generation mechanism new insights into dynamics rapidly changing environment.