A comprehensive study of coastal currents in Mediterranean Sea: use of an embedded model (METRO-MED project)

The hydrodynamic functioning of the Gulf of Lions is addressed through a 3D numerical model embedded in a general circulation model of the Mediterranean Sea. Simulations have been performed on a one-year period. They show strong seasonal and mesoscale variability of the dynamics. Winter-spring circulation is dominated by the dynamics of the Northern Current which concentrates kinetic and turbulent kinetic energy of the gulf. The mesoscale activity is seen to globally decrease during summer whereas surface circulation is characterised by the stability of an eddy located on the west part of the gulf. The comparison of simulations with satellite data establishes the ability for the model to properly simulate the main characteristics of the Cassis upwelling.