Estimation of Flow Rate and Thermohaline Characteristics of Atlantic Water in the Eurasian Basin

Abstract

The large set of CTD data obtained within the NABOS program in 2002–2008 is analyzed. The description of variability of θ, S-indices, and flow rate of the geostrophic current transporting Atlantic water along the continental slope of the Eurasian Basin is presented. It is shown that the dramatic warming of Atlantic water registered in 2006 was accompanied by an increase in the flow rate of the geostrophic currents throughout its path in the Eurasian Basin up to 142° E. The current characteristics derived from CTD data are given. The variability of hydrological parameters characterizing the Atlantic water flow in the Eurasian Basin is interpreted. The results are important reference data and can also be used for the comparative assessment of the amplitudes of variability of 9 and S-indices arising from climate change in the Arctic Basin.