Low-frequency coupled atmosphere-ocean variability in the southern Indian Ocean

Abstract

The low-frequency atmosphere-ocean coupled variability of the southern Indian Ocean (SIO) was investigated using observation data over 1958-2010. These data were obtained from ECMWF for sea level pressure (SLP) and wind, from NCEP/NCAR for heat fluxes, and from the Hadley Center for SST. To obtain the coupled air-sea variability, we performed SVD analyses on SST and SLP. The primary coupled mode represents 43% of the total square covariance and is featured by weak westerly winds along 45A degrees-30A degrees S. This weakened subtropical anticyclone forces fluctuations in a well-known subtropical dipole structure in the SST via wind-induced processes. The SST changes in response to atmosphere forcing and is predictable with a lead-time of 1-2 months. Atmosphere-ocean coupling of this mode is strongest during the austral summer. Its principle component is characterized by mixed interannual and interdecadal fluctuations. There is a strong relationship between the first mode and Antarctic Oscillation (AAO). The AAO can influence the coupled processes in the SIO by modulating the subtropical high. The second mode, accounting for 30% of the total square covariance, represents a 25-year period interdecadal oscillation in the strength of the subtropical anticyclone that is accompanied by fluctuations of a monopole structure in the SST along the 35A degrees-25A degrees S band. It is caused by subsidence of the atmosphere. The present study also shows that physical processes of both local thermodynamic and ocean circulation in the SIO have a crucial role in the formation of the atmosphere-ocean covariability.