Fixed-point observation of mixed layer evolution in seasonally ice-free Chukchi Sea: Turbulent mixing due to gale winds and internal gravity waves

Abstract:

A fixed-point observation using the R/V Mirai was conducted in the ice-free northern Chukchi Sea of the

Arctic Ocean during September of 2013. During the program the authors performed repeated microstructure

measurements to reveal the temporal evolution of the surface mixed layer and mixing processes in the upper

water column. The shelf region was initially characterized by a distinct two-layer system comprising a warmer/

fresher top layer and a colder/saltier bottom layer. During the two-week observation period, the top-layer

water showed two types of mixing processes: near-surface turbulence due to strong wind forcing and subsurface

mixing due to internal gravity waves. In the first week, when the top layer was stratified with fresh sea

ice meltwater, turbulent energy related to internal waves propagated through the subsurface stratification,

resulting in a mechanical overturning near the pycnocline, followed by enhanced mixing there. In the second

week, gale winds directly stirred up the upper water and then established a deeper homogenous layer. The

combination of internal wave mixing and wind-driven turbulence may contribute to releasing the oceanic heat

into the atmosphere, consequently promoting the preconditioning of surface water freezing.