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The global signature of the ENSO and SST-like fields

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Abstract

The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)-like variability of various parameters and indices (e.g. sea surface temperature (SST)) is explored, by employing the last six decades of data on a global scale. We found that the ENSO signal in the SST field extends over tropics and subtropics, becoming maximum around 30° N and 30° S. The pronounced ENSO signal in the SST is observed over the southern tropics and subtropics. Additionally, the investigation of regional links between the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and SST revealed a new regional link, which extends in the tropical southern Pacific Ocean, where the effects of a long-lived pattern of SST are taking place. Furthermore, very strong SST-like surface temperature behaviour is observed over the equatorial Indian Ocean, being a new input to the assessment of “dangerous anthropogenic interference”. The above-mentioned findings could be employed to the advanced modelling development to improve climate change projections.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Climate Research Group, Division of Environmental Physics and Meteorology, Faculty of Physics, University of Athens, University Campus Bldg. Phys. V, Athens, 15784, Greece

    Costas A. Varotsos

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  1. Costas A. Varotsos
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Correspondence to Costas A. Varotsos.

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Varotsos, C.A. The global signature of the ENSO and SST-like fields. Theor Appl Climatol 113, 197–204 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00704-012-0773-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00704-012-0773-0

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