Wind Effects on Currents Observed in Juan de Fuca Submarine Canyon

Abstract

Juan de Fuca submarine canyon has depths exceeding 200 m extending completely across the continental shelf. Observations of currents in the canyon during winter 1970 showed relatively large currents and large excursions both in- and out-canyon. Three major flow reversals appear related to major wind reversals as a compensating current to an Ekman surface regime. A fourth wind reversal, not accompanied by flow reversal, indicates that along-canyon density gradients are also important.