Comparison of Freshwater Content and Variability in the Arctic Ocean Using Observations and Model Simulations

Freshwater content (FWC), generally characterized in the Arctic Ocean by salinities lower than 34.8 psu, has shifted both quantity and distribution recent decades Ocean. This been largely driven changes volume salinity of freshwater sources direction magnitude major currents. In this study, we analyze variability FWC other physical oceanographic variables from 1993 to 2021 Beaufort Gyre (BG) using situ remote sensing observations five ocean models reanalysis products. Generally, products underestimate BG when compared with observations. Modeled sea surface height (SSH) are well correlated during time period similar correlations observational data these variables. ORAS5 compares best EN4 over entire study period, although GLORYS12 agrees pre-2007 SODA post-2007. Outside BG, consistency between modeled SSH, FWC, limited varies models. These comparisons help identify discrepancies model while highlighting areas where future improvements necessary further our understanding FWC. As scarce Arctic, their accuracy important studying dynamic vulnerable ocean.