A review of synoptic weather effects on sea ice outflow through Fram Strait: cyclone vs. anticyclone

Abstract

Sea ice outflow through Fram Strait is a vital component of the sea ice mass balance of the Arctic Ocean. Previous studies have examined the role of large-scale modes of atmospheric circulation variability such as the Arctic Oscillation, North Atlantic Oscillation, and Dipole Anomaly in the movement of sea ice. This review emphasizes the distinct impacts of synoptic weather on sea ice export as well as on other relevant fields (i.e., sea ice concentration and sea ice drift). We identify deficiencies in previous studies that should be addressed, and we summarize potential research subjects that should be investigated to further our understanding of the relationship between synoptic weather and sea ice export via Fram Strait. For example, the connection between summertime anticyclones and weakened potential vorticity related to the observed extensive spring Eurasian snow and Siberian Ocean sea ice loss is of considerable interest. In-depth exploration of this type of geophysical mechanism will be particularly useful in assessment of the robustness of such linkages inferred through statistical analyses.