Interannual Mass Variation: Links to Modes of Climate Variability

Abstract:

Low frequency, seasonal-to-interannual changes in the global mass distribution field are increasingly open to study as the GRACE data record lengthens. This record permits us to analyze detailed mass variations of individual systems, such as the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets or major continental aquifers. Moreover, the record facilitates the study of inter-relationships between regional gravity changes and the implied mass transports between different parts of the globe. We will focus on regional mass variations that are highly correlated with global climate indices; we use both the traditional climate indices, such as the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), and the recently introduced orthogonal climatic indices (de Viron, 2013). Relationship with teleconnection patterns will be investigated.