A numerical study of the Gulf Stream response to hurricanes

The interaction between the Gulf Stream and a hurricane is investigated using the Princeton Ocean Model. The main focus of this study is the dynamical effects of hurricane forcing on the triggering and growth of Gulf Steam meanders. We also investigate the modification of the ocean geostrophic and gravity wave response to a hurricane in the presence of a Gulf Stream-like front. The numerical experiments are performed for both idealized and realistic ocean and hurricane conditions. Special attention is placed on initialization of the Gulf Stream in a numerical model using available satellite and in-situ measurements.