Ocean Mesoscale Variability: A Case Study on the Mediterranean Sea From a Re-Analysis Perspective

The mesoscale variability in the Mediterranean Sea is investigated through eddy detection techniques. analysis performed over 24 years (1993–2016) considering three-dimensional (3D) fields from an ocean re-analysis of (MED-REA). objective to achieve a fit-for-purpose assessment 3D field. In particular, we focus on contribution eddy-driven anomalies dynamics and thermodynamics. accuracy method used disclose contributions assessed against pointwise in-situ measurements observation-based data sets. Eddy lifetimes ? 2 weeks are representative field basin, showing high probability (> 60 % ) occurrence areas main quasi-stationary features. results show dependence size thickness polarity lifetime: anticyclonic eddies (ACE) significantly deeper than cyclonic (CE), their tends increase long-lived structures which also seasonal variability. Mesoscale result be significant Sea, as they account for large portion sea-surface height at temporal scales longer 1 month kinetic energy (50–60 both surface depth. Looking thermodynamics, exhibit existence typical warm (cold) cores associated with ACEs (CEs) exceptions Levantine basin (e.g., Shikmona gyre) where structure close mode-water ACE persists positive salinity anomaly. this area, eddy-induced temperature can affected by strong summer stratification water, displaying opposite sign anomaly whether looking or that driven (? 4 weeks) affect up 15–25 monthly upper heat content basin.