Fluctuation in volume transport distribution accompanied by the Kuroshio front migration in the Tokara Strait

A relation between migration of the Kuroshio front and fluctuation of distribution of volume transport in the Tokara Strait was described, using sea level records at five tide gauge stations around the strait and data which were composed of sea surface temperature, XBT casts, sea surface salinity and velocities at 20 m, 75 m and 150 m depths taken en route a ferryboat. The Kuroshio front extends to about 150 m depth. The sea surface salinity and the horizontal velocities abruptly change at the front. There is a good correlation in a period range from half a month to two months between the migration of the front, which is not only at the surface but also in the subsurface, and the sea level fluctuation at Nakano-shima.