Modes of variability of the Yucatan current

In August 1999, an eight-mooring array containing 33 Anderaa sensors (measuring velocity, temperature and salinity) and 8 upward looking ADCP's, was deployed across the Yucatan Channel, fully recovered in June 2000, and re-deployed for another 9 months. Data from this array are analysed using complex empirical orthogonal functions (CEOF) and multichannel singular spectrum analysis (M-SSA). Amplitud and phase structure of the main modes of variability in different frequency bands (periods between 2 and 45 days) are discussed together with their possible dynamical origin.