Interannual variations of ice cover and wave energy flux in the northeastern Baltic Sea

Abstract

Abstract The major factor shaping the coast of the micro-tidal Baltic Sea is wave activity, the impact of which is limited by the presence or absence of sea ice. Existing studies have revealed almost no correlation between the annual mean wave height and the duration of the ice season. We attempt to evaluate the correlation between ice season duration and bulk wave energy flux (wave power), mean energy and average wave height over the ice-free season for three segments of the Estonian coast (Vilsandi, Pakri and Narva-Joesuu). Statistically significant correlation at the 95% confidence level exists between the duration of the ice season at Vilsandi (a site fully open to the predominant winds) and bulk wave energy flux derived from both observed and modelled wave properties. Similarly strong correlation exists between the mean wave energy and the duration of the ice season at the largely sheltered Narva-Joesuu site.