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Exceptional dense water formation on the Adriatic shelf in the winter of 2012.
- Source :
- Ocean Science Discussions; 2012, Vol. 9 Issue 6, p3701-3721, 21p
- Publication Year :
- 2012
-
Abstract
- We document dense water formation (DWF) throughout the Adriatic shelf and coastal area in January/February 2012, resulting in record-breaking densities observed during and after the event. The unprecedented dense water generation was preconditioned by a dry and warm year which resulted in a significant reduction of coastal freshwaters, superimposed on a long-term basin-wide salinity increase. The final event that triggered the DWF was an extended period of cold weather with strong and severe winds. Record-breaking potential density anomalies (above 30 kgm<superscript>-3</superscript>) were measured at several DWF sites. Accumulated surface net heat and water losses in some coastal regions exceeded 1.5GJm<superscript>-2</superscript> and 250 kgm<superscript>-2</superscript> over 21 days, respectively. Excessiveness, importance of shelf-type DWF, effects on the thermohaline circulation and deep aquatic systems, and connection with climate change are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 18120806
- Volume :
- 9
- Issue :
- 6
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Ocean Science Discussions
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 84558493
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.5194/osd-9-3701-2012