The Role of Mesoscale Dynamics over Northwestern Cuba in the Loop Current Evolution in 2010, during the Deepwater Horizon Incident

The Loop Current (LC) system controls the connectivity between northern Gulf of Mexico (GoM) region and Straits Florida. evolution LC shedding sequence anticyclonic ring (Eddy Franklin) were crucial for fate hydrocarbons released during Deepwater Horizon (DwH) oil spill in 2010. In a previous study, we identified LC-related eddies southern GoM, named “Cuba anticyclones” (“CubANs”). Here, investigate relation these 2010, focusing on DwH period. We use high-resolution model results tandem with observational data to describe connection within GoM (LC extensions, Eddy Franklin Frontal Eddies—LCFEs) mesoscale dynamics Florida where CubANs propagate. Five periods CubAN eddy activity period, featuring different formation processes under combination local regional conditions. Most cases are related retracted phases, when major anticyclone 2010) is detached from main body most likely. However, two presence elongated detected, which led attenuation eastward flows warm waters through (Florida Current; outflow), allowing stronger supply Caribbean Yucatan Channel into (inflow), contributed short-term northward extensions. Oceanographic (LCFEs) meteorological (wind-induced upwelling) conditions release body, which, other processes, incident.