A numerical study of the barotropic circulation in the Barents and Kara Seas

The present study is focused on the barotropic features of the circulation in the Barents and Kara Seas. A three-dimensional, non-linear shelf model is used with a prescribed Norwegian Atlantic Current (NAC). M 2 tidal forcing, wind stress forcing and air pressure. Circulation and mass transport fluxes through the Barents Sea openings are investigated by applying these forcing mechanisms individually and in combination. A time series of volume fluxes for the Bear Island Trough and the Svyataya Anna Trough is presented. Simulations reveal strong topographic steering of the shelf circulation, particularly northwest of Novaya Semlya. Mass transport fluxes through the Bear Island Trough are highly sensitive to wind forcing and annual change. The circulation on the Svalbard Bank is influenced by M 2 residual currents.