01-05 December 2025
INCOIS, Hyderabad, India.
| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-04-0122 |
| Title of Abstract | Southern Ocean Climate Dynamics: Observations, Modeling, and Future Projections |
| Authors | Jadhav Ankita K* |
| Organisation | Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune |
| Address | Durwankur Society, Panchawati,Pashan Pune, Maharashtra, India Pincode: 411008 E-mail: jankita2722@gmail.com |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Poster |
| Abstract | This study investigates the dynamics of the Southern Ocean (SO) climate system, focusing on sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface salinity (SSS), and wind stress (WS), along with their impact on the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC). Using outputs from selected CMIP6 climate models, we analyze seasonal variability and long-term trends in these key variables. The results reveal pronounced seasonal cycles across the SO. During austral summer, SST increases to 4⿿8°C between 50°⿿55°S, while remaining below ⿿2°C in the Weddell and Ross Seas. In winter, widespread cooling reduces SST across the SO to below ⿿2°C. SSS peaks during early summer and late winter (34⿿34.8 psu), largely due to brine rejection from sea ice formation. Wind stress shows persistent maxima (0.30⿿0.35 Nm⁻²) over the eastern SO, associated with strong westerlies driving the ACC. Long-term trends indicate general warming across the SO, with model-dependent variations. ACCESS simulates the highest SST rise (1⿿2°C), while FGOALS shows minimal change (<0.5°C). SSS changes vary, with some models indicating freshening and others salinification. An increase in WS, especially in the Pacific sector, is evident across all models. The Weddell and Ross Seas emerge as key regions, exhibiting consistently low SST and high SSS, highlighting their role in deep and bottom water formation. These physical changes have major implications for global ocean circulation and climate regulation. While CMIP6 models show consistent spatial patterns, inter-model differences stress the need for model refinement and validation with observations. Understanding these dynamics is vital for improving future climate projections and addressing the Southern Ocean⿿s response to climate change. |
| Are you part of IIOE-2 endorsed project | no |
| Keywords | Climate change; Antarctica circumpolar current; weather prediction; sea surface temperature; salinity changes |
| For Awards | no |