Vortex dynamics in the southeastern Baltic Sea from satellite radar data

Abstract

The analysis of radar satellite images shows that vortex dipoles are a typical element of the water circulation in the southeastern part of the Baltic Sea. The wide range of spatial dimensions of observed vortices (from approximately 2 to 25 km) corresponds to mesoscale and submesoscale vortex formations (signifying whether the diameter is respectively larger or smaller than the baroclinic Rossby radius of deformation, equal to 5–6 km). Vortex dipoles typical for different areas and their spatial characteristics are considered. These areas were the Hel Spit, the Taran Cape, the central part of the Gulf of Gdansk and the area northward of the Gulf. It is shown that the mesoscale vortex dipoles and the associated jets condition horizontal water exchange in an area comparable with the size of the considered water area. The differences in the appearance of the cyclonic and anticyclonic components of vortex dipoles revealed in satellite radar images are discussed.