Ocean‐Sea Ice Processes and Their Role in Multi‐Month Predictability of Antarctic Sea Ice

Antarctic sea ice is a critical component of the climate system and vital habitat for Southern Ocean ecosystems. Understanding underlying physical processes improving prediction broad interest. Using model data, we investigate upper ocean predictability at interannual timescales in Weddell Sea region. We find that oceanic largely confined to Winter Water layer responds seasonal modifications water column, mainly driven by processes. Predictability depends not only on depth layer, but also how strongly stratified its base is. lost when warm Circumpolar Deep with no ice-related memory entrains into mixed layer. show strong dependence local vertical structure, which suggests both are likely change warming climate.