East coast ocean currents

Abstract

A three-dimensional barotropic model of the wind-driven ocean circulation is examined and the flow near the east coast of the ocean is considered in detail. The model is linear and has constant coefficients of eddy viscosity. It is shown that a strong current may exist in the eastern boundary layer when upwelling or downwelling is present. No net northwards transport is produced as an equal deep counter current also occurs. A consequence of the downwelling is that the principal interior gyre is prevented from reaching the east coast and a secondary gyre is formed in this region.