THE NEAR-SURFACE HORIZONTAL BUOYANCY FLUX IN A HIGHLY STRATIFIED REGION, KATTEGAT

A one-dimensional model was used to evaluate the role of wind mixing a nd a horizontal buoyancy flux on the stratification of the upper 5-10 m in Kattegat at the entrance to the Baltic Sea estuary. The horizonta l buoyancy flux in the upper 5-10 m is shown to cause a stabilization of an order of magnitude equal to wind mixing. This buoyancy flux is c aused by pulses of large volumes of less salty Baltic Proper water per iodically entering Kattegat. When spread over Kattegat, these pulses c reate stratification within the upper 5 m that typically lasts for 4 d ays. After stratified periods, the upper 5 m become homogeneous for a day or two before the stratification is re-established. Stratification of the upper 10 m typically lasts for 10-15 days. (C) 1997 Academic P ress Limited.