Exploring the AMOC Connectivity Between the RAPID and OSNAP Lines With a Model‐Based Data Set

• Published in: Geophysical Research Letters
• Main Author: Lei Han
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 2023
• Subjects: Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation; meridional coherence; RAPID mooring; OSNAP mooring; seasonal variability; Geophysics. Cosmic physics; QC801-809; Labrador Sea; North Atlantic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1029/2023GL105225; https://doaj.org/article/d56f0b2d4ef34321b114a90b22387ae7

Abstract Two major trans‐basin mooring arrays, the Rapid Climate Change‐Meridional Overturning Circulation and Heatflux Array (RAPID) at 26.5°N since 2004 and the Overturning in the Subpolar North Atlantic Program (OSNAP) situated at 53°–60°N since 2014, have been continuously monitoring the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). This study explores the connectivity of AMOC across these two mooring lines from a novel adiabatic perspective utilizing a model‐based data set. The findings unveil significant in‐phase connections facilitated by the adiabatic basinwide redistribution of water between the two lines on a monthly timescale. This adiabatic mode is a possible cause for the observed subpolar AMOC seasonality by OSNAP. Furthermore, the Labrador Sea was identified as a hotspot for adiabatic forcing of the overturning circulations, primarily attributed to its dynamic isopycnal movements.