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Brief communication: Changing mid-twentieth century Antarctic sea ice variability linked to tropical forcing (Discussion Paper)

Brief communication: Changing mid-twentieth century Antarctic sea ice variability linked to tropical forcing (Discussion Paper) Thumbnail


Abstract

Satellite observations demonstrate Antarctic sea ice extent increased between late-1978 and 2015, with significant spatial and seasonal variability. Late spring retreat off George V Land is a major component of the observed increase, but the paucity of proxy records makes interpretation of trends (and impacts) challenging. Here Earth-system modelling and reanalysis demonstrate tropical Pacific warming can trigger an atmospheric Rossby wave response during the austral spring, delaying sea-ice retreat off George V Land. Our results provide new insights into the spatial and temporal role low latitudes play in Antarctic sea-ice production, drift and ocean circulation on decadal to centennial timescales.

Acceptance Date Apr 21, 2017
Publication Date Apr 25, 2017
Journal The Cryosphere
Print ISSN 1994-0416
Publisher European Geosciences Union (EGU)
DOI https://doi.org/10.5194/tc-2017-51%2C+2017
Publisher URL https://www.the-cryosphere-discuss.net/tc-2017-51/

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