Investigating the Anomalously Warm North Atlantic Ocean in Summer 2023

Subject: Oceanography

Level: Bachelor's (15hp) or Master's (45-60 hp) thesis project
Location: Gothenburg
Supervisor: Fabien Roquet

Project background

The unprecedented warmth observed in the North Atlantic Ocean during the summer of 2023 has raised significant questions about its causes, impacts, and potential future trends.

This project aims to investigate the anomalous sea surface temperature (SST) conditions through a combination of observational data analysis and model reanalysis techniques.

Project description

The primary objective of this project is to understand the drivers and mechanisms behind the exceptionally warm North Atlantic Ocean during the summer of 2023, and which continued until spring 2024 (at least).

Specifically, the project will focus on elucidating the role of atmospheric circulation patterns (NAO, ENSO…), ocean dynamics, and potential long-term climate trends in shaping these anomalous conditions.

The methodology involves gathering observational data sets, including satellite-derived sea surface temperature (SST) data, atmospheric forcing data, and oceanographic measurements, to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution of SST anomalies in the North Atlantic before and during the summer.

Additionally, model reanalysis products (GLORYS) will be used to obtain a more comprehensive picture of the subsurface ocean response.

Skills

• Study the atmospheric and oceanic processes driving SST anomalies.
• Analyze satellite and model reanalysis products to extract knowledge.
• Learn how to use a scientific programming tool for ocean data analysis.

Contact

Fabien Roquet
Professor
E-mail: fabien.roquet@gu.se

References

Record-breaking North Atlantic Ocean temperatures contribute to extreme marine heatwaves, Copernicus, European Commission