On the Role of the Antarctic Slope Front on the Occurrence of the Weddell Sea Polynya under Climate Change

Abstract This study investigates the occurrence of Weddell Sea polynya under an idealized climate change scenario by evaluating simulations from models different ocean resolutions. The GFDL-CM2.6 model, with roughly 3.8-km horizontal grid spacing in high latitudes, forms a at similar time and duration forcing as preindustrial forcing. In contrast, all convective forming phase 5 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) show either cessation or slowdown events warming. representation Antarctic Slope Current related Front is found to be key explaining differences between two categories models, these features being more realistic CM2.6 than CMIP5. CM2.6, freshwater input driven sea ice melt enhanced runoff warming largely remains on shelf region since slope front restricts lateral spread freshwater. for most CMIP5 open-ocean stratification freshening absence allows coastal anomalies into open ocean. contributes polynyas. Hence, improved processes current desirable increase our ability predict fate polynyas change.