Optimal Forcing Patterns of the North Atlantic

The ocean is subject to stochastic forcing at a wide range of space- and time-scales. Generalized linear stability theory has been used to explore the dynamics of stochastically-induced ocean variability in the wind driven circulation of the North Atlantic. This was done by computing the stochastic optimals of the ocean circulation, which represent the patterns of surface forcing that are most effective for inducing variability in the system. The stochastic optimals are basin scale patterns reminiscent of observed surface forcing anomalies associated with the atmospheric teleconnection patterns. The dynamics of the stochastically-induced variability involves Rossby wave interactions with the western boundary currents. The implications of stochastically-induced ocean variability for ocean prediction and ocean eddy kinetic energy will be discussed.