Understanding Sea Surface Temperature (SST) in Geography

Study Notes

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and Its Role in Geography

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) is a fundamental aspect of our planet's climate system. It refers to the temperature of the ocean's surface, which is intimately linked to geographical features, weather patterns, and ecological processes. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of SST from a geographical perspective.

SST as a Geographical Factor

SST influences a range of geographical phenomena, including:

Atmospheric circulation: SSTs drive the thermohaline circulation, which, in turn, affects weather patterns and climate. For instance, higher SSTs can lead to the formation of atmospheric high-pressure systems, causing dry and stable weather, whereas lower SSTs can lead to low-pressure systems, causing more dynamic weather and rain.
Ecological zones: SSTs define the distribution of marine ecosystems and habitats. For example, cold ocean areas like the Antarctic support phytoplankton and krill, while warm waters such as those found in the Gulf Stream support coral reef ecosystems.
Coastal temperatures: SSTs influence coastal temperatures, as the ocean releases or absorbs heat to the atmosphere. This affects human habitats along the coastline, leading to variations in agricultural productivity, urban heat island effects, and human comfort.
El Niño and La Niña: SSTs in the equatorial Pacific Ocean are associated with El Niño and La Niña events, which can significantly impact weather patterns and ecosystems worldwide.

Measuring SST

SST is typically measured using satellite remote sensing and in situ (in-water) temperature sensors. Satellite sensors use thermal infrared imaging to measure the temperature of the ocean's surface, while in situ sensors include buoys and Argo floats that drift along the water column, measuring temperature profiles.

Global SST Patterns

The Earth's oceans exhibit distinct SST patterns that are shaped by a combination of factors, including solar radiation, ocean currents, air temperatures, and the Coriolis effect. Some of the major SST patterns include:

North Atlantic Drift: This warm current flows from the Gulf Stream to the North Atlantic Ocean, transporting heat northward and affecting European and North American climate.
Kuroshio Current: This warm current flows northward along the coast of Japan, influencing the region's climate and marine ecosystems.
Ring of Fire: This area, surrounding the Pacific Ocean's "Ring of Fire," is characterized by high SSTs, which drive cloud formation and rainfall.

Changes in SST and Their Implications

SSTs are changing in response to increasing greenhouse gas emissions and ocean warming. As a result, we are observing shifts in marine ecosystems, changes in weather patterns, and impacts on coastal communities. For instance:

Coral reef bleaching: Warmer SSTs can lead to coral reef bleaching events where corals expel their symbiotic algae, leading to the death of coral reef ecosystems.
Marine heatwaves: Warmer SSTs can lead to marine heatwaves, which can cause mass mortalities of marine life, including fish and sea mammals.
Coastal flooding: Coastal communities, particularly those located in low-lying areas, are at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels and increased ocean storm surges, which are driven by changes in SSTs.

Understanding SSTs and their impacts is crucial for anticipating future climate change and promoting sustainable practices to protect our planet's ecosystems, communities, and resources. Meehl, G.A., Arblaster, J.M., & Tebaldi, C. (2013). Human-induced climate change patterns, impacts, and future risks. In Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis (pp. 1137-1182). Cambridge University Press. Levitus, S., Antonov, J. I., Boyer, T. P., Baranova, O. K., Garcia, H. E., Locarnini, R. A., Mishonov, A. V., Reagan, J. R., Seidov, D., Yarosh, E. S., & Zweng, M. M. (2019). World Ocean Atlas 2018. Volume 1: Temperature. NOAA Atlas NESDIS 81, 12 pp. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). (n.d.). Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and El Niño/La Niña. Retrieved February 21, 2024, from https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/sea-surface-temperature-sst-and-elnino-la-nina NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). (n.d.). SST Anomalies. Retrieved February 21, 2024, from https://www.esrl.noaa.gov/psd/data/gridded/data.sst.html

Description

Explore the role of Sea Surface Temperature (SST) in geography, including its influence on atmospheric circulation, ecological zones, coastal temperatures, and global SST patterns. Learn about measuring SST, global SST patterns like the North Atlantic Drift and Kuroshio Current, and the changes in SST affecting coral reef bleaching, marine heatwaves, and coastal flooding.