Meteorological variability/circulation (Task 2.1)

The main thrust of this task is to compile the current information on the state and trends of the Mediterranean-Black Sea system, as well as on possible correlation to global climatic features (through direct air-sea interaction and river inputs) in the field of meteorological, oceanographic and satellite information of the Mediterranean and Black Sea region.

Background and Rationale

Recent dramatic changes of the thermohaline properties and circulation in the eastern Mediterranean Sea (Eastern Mediterranean Transient that occurred in the late 80s early 90s) have revealed that the region is very sensitive and responds rapidly to changes in atmospheric forcing. These changes affect the Mediterranean-Black Sea system in a rather complex and still unknown way.

Available information on the current state and trends of the Mediterranean-Black Sea system, as well as their correlation to global climatic features (North Atlantic Oscillation, ENSO, and the Indian Monsoon) will be compiled. The outcome of the study will focus on the missing elements and the future needs for assessment. The study of atmosphere-ocean interactions and other parameters that influence the thermohaline properties of the system can improve our understanding of the response of the Mediterranean-Black Sea system, the time scales involved in the responses and the existence of positive or negative feedback mechanisms.

The Mediterranean and Black Seas are connected through a system of straits (Dardanelles and Bosporus). The exchange between the two seas and its role in the thermohaline properties and circulation of the region is not well known and understood. A review study of literature has been compiled to investigate the seasonal and interannual variability of the exchange flow and its temperature and salinity characteristics and has been correlated to changes in the circulation and water-mass formation of the various sub-basins.

Task leaders

Vassilis Zervakis-email Vassilis zervakis@marine.aegean.gr
Emin Ozsoy-email ozsoy@ims.metu.edu.tr

Participants