Seasonal-Mean Wind-Driven Circulation On The Newfoundland And Labrador Shelf

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Linear finite element models are implemented for the Newfoundland and Labrador Shelf to investigate barotropic wind-driven circulation. Long-term monthly-mean wind-driven circulation is computed with wind stresses from the NCEP-NCAR reanalysis data prescribed at the sea surface and corresponding large-scale remote forcing specified at the open boundary determined from a North Atlantic model. The model solutions are discussed for annual-mean circulation features, seasonal variations and the relative importance of local to remote forcing. The model solutions show a shelf-edge current and an inshore current, both of which directed equatorward. The cross-shelf flows and anticyclonic circulation over shallow banks are evident as a consequence of topographic steering. There are strong seasonal variations in the Labrador Current, strongest in the December and weakest in July. The model shelf-edge Labrador Current is predominated by the remote forcing, while the local wind forcing plays a significant role in the inshore Current. The model transport for the primary shelf-scale flows is examined against previous model results and in situ observations. The wind forcing contributes significantly to not only the inshore branch of the Labrador Current but also the shelf-edge branch.