In situ observations, satellite data, and the output from an eddy-resolving ocean circulation model were used to study the generations and propagations of an anticyclonic eddy in the northern South China Sea (NSCS) during the winter of 2009-2010. In the NSCS, the anticyclonic eddy firstly appeared to the west of the Luzon Strait, migrated generally along the continental slope and dissipated around the Xisha Archipelago. The evolution of the warm eddy contains three phases: development, maturation, and decay. The eddy mainly stayed near 119.7 degrees E in December and then gradually moved to 118.7 degrees E until January 15, when its intensity, as indicated by the thermocline temperature and salinity anomalies, increased significantly, reflecting the growth of the eddy. The eddy reached its peak on January 15 and persisted until February 23. During this period, the eddy propagated westward to 116.4 degrees E. After, the warm eddy weakened significantly and dissipated finally near the Xisha Archipelago.
[Liu Changjian; Du Yan; Zhuang Wei; Xie Qiang] Chinese Acad Sci, South China Sea Inst Oceanol, State Key Lab Trop Oceanog, Guangzhou 510301, Guangdong, Peoples R China; [Liu Changjian; Xia Huayong] State Ocean Adm, South China Sea Branch, South China Sea Marine Engn Surveying Ctr, Guangzhou 510301, Guangdong, Peoples R China.Evolution and propagation of a mesoscale eddy in the northern South China Sea during winter,ACTA OCEANOLOGICA SINICA,2013,32(7):1-7
