Boundary Currents and their interactions with the shelf seas

KRUG, M.; CHIDICHIMO, M. P.; WILKINS, J.

Mar del Plata

Workshop; 21st Session Ocean Observations Panel for Physics and Climate; 2018

World Meteorological Association

In this talk we will give an overview of progress in developing observing strategies for boundary currents and their interactions with the shelf. There is significant activity and interest in the community to tap into demonstrated by a number of whitepaper abstracts being developed in this area; including (but not limited to): the use of Gliders in Boundary Currents, Deep Ocean-shelf connections, South Atlantic observations, and one focused on the Agulhas-Benguela system. We will highlight the societal importance of understanding and monitoring these regions, including their influence on ocean productivity and carbon sinks, as well as on energy fluxes. To measure these regions a portfolio of observations can be used, including mooring arrays, drifters, gliders, unmanned surface vehicles and satellite observations. Bringing these observations together with modelling capabilities is essential for characterizing these complex systems and interactions.