Influence of lateral boundaries on mesoscale variability

Abstract

Using the Florida Strait as a prototype, it is shown that lateral boundaries can have a significant dynamic influence on mesoscale variability, provided the distance between the lateral boundaries is very close to the critical width for baroclinic instability ( is the internal Rossby radius of deformation). As a result, the close relation between strong background currents and mesoscale variability found in open‐ocean settings breaks down. In addition, straits that are narrow enough can very effectively block through‐strait movement of strong mesoscale variability.