Interannual variability of hydrographic properties in Potter Cove during summers between 2010 and 2017
Abstract The temporal and spatial variability of oceanographic properties in Potter Cove was analysed for the 2010–17 summer periods. This was linked with meteorological parameters and sea ice. The water column structure presented significant differences in turbidity between two areas (away from and...
| Published in: | Antarctic Science |
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
2021
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0954102020000668 https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0954102020000668 |
| Summary: | Abstract The temporal and spatial variability of oceanographic properties in Potter Cove was analysed for the 2010–17 summer periods. This was linked with meteorological parameters and sea ice. The water column structure presented significant differences in turbidity between two areas (away from and closer to the Fourcade Glacier). The recent retreat has been transforming it into a land terminating glacier. Therefore, correlations obtained between oceanographic properties near the glacier and meteorological parameters reveal that atmospheric conditions are the main forcing of the Potter system, in agreement with previous studies. Also, high turbidity values within deeper waters in 2013 and 2014 were probably related to resuspended glacial sediment input into the cove. Interannual variability observed in the local parameters was connected to ENSO and SAM, reflecting a larger connection with ENSO, mainly in longer timescales. Colder waters during the 2010 and 2016 El Niño phases could be related to lower air temperature. In summer 2010 during a negative SAM phase, colder, more saline and low turbid waters were observed. Alternatively, in 2012 during La Niña and positive SAM, warmer, fresher and more turbid conditions were found with high vertical stratification. Finally, during 2015 (positive SAM), warmer and low salinity waters were observed. |
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