Author(s): S. J. Prinsenberg; I. K. Peterson

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Abstract: The interannual variability of sea ice extent along the Canadian east coast is shown to be caused by atmospheric circulation anomalies over the northern hemisphere which can be typified locally by the North Atlantic Oscillation Index. For 1962 to 1992, the sea ice data shows that winters with deep Icelandic lows, severe ice conditions occur along the Canadian coast in contrast to the mild winters in northern Europe. During deepening of the Icelandic Low, southern ice transport by wind increases. In addition, local ice growth increases and ice melt decreases as a result of colder air temperatures. Severe winters did occurred in the early 1970s, mid-1980s and early 1990s; the last cold period has continued into 1994 and is affecting the oceanic temperature distribution along the Canadian east coast.

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Year: 1994