Influence of Caribbean eddies on the Loop current system evolution

The Loop Current (LC) system dynamics are an essential component of the processes influencing circulation and transport in Gulf Mexico (GoM). LC evolution is influenced by various factors, including rich eddy field region flow exchange through Yucatan Strait with neighboring Caribbean Sea. These factors contribute to complexity and, as a result, limitations predictability system. focus this study further elucidate LC, quantifying influence coherent fluxes originating This achieved employing Lagrangian-Averaged Vorticity Deviation (LAVD) method, objective metric evaluate coherence Sea that allows, for first time, quantify at different depths eddies Channel towards GoM. physical connectivity between GoM addressed using Lagrangian techniques analyze take place south help their strong relationship field. Coherent anticyclonic vorticity fluxes, well net volume associated Eddy (LCE) detachments direct anticyclones forming LCE. findings have important implications understanding predicting