loading page

Anticyclones drive Beaufort breakout events
  • MacKenzie Elise Jewell,
  • Jennifer Katy Hutchings
MacKenzie Elise Jewell
Oregon State University

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile
Jennifer Katy Hutchings
Oregon State University
Author Profile

Abstract

In winter 2013, a sea ice breakout in the Beaufort Sea produced extensive fracturing and contributed to record regional ice export. Rheinlænder et al. (2022) simulated this event using the neXtSIM sea ice model, reproducing a realistic progression of lead opening and ice drift following the track of an anticyclone. In their study, Rheinlænder et al. (2022) highlighted strong winds and thin ice as key factors for breakouts. We draw on observational records to provide additional context for the driving mechanisms of breakout events. We show that wind direction, rather than speed, was the primary control on patterns of lead opening and breakout timing in 2013. Records of similar events over previous decades demonstrate that breakouts are common under anticyclonic forcing, including during years when the ice was thicker. These additional events can be used to further validate models such as neXtSIM and improve predictive capabilities for future breakouts.