Seasonal deformation of the North Equatorial Countercurrent in the Atlantic Ocean

The geostrophic circulation of active and intermediate layers in the north Tropical Atlantic is analysed on the basis of data collected in the transatlantic study area in 1986–1987. Its seasonal features are also found. Quasi-steady eddy formations and their relation to the bottom topography are considered for the intermediate region. The influence of these formations on the kinematics of large-scale currents in this layer is substantiated. Structures of large-scale tropical cyclonic and anticyclonic eddy formations are specified. A strategy for further studies in the Tropical Atlantic is suggested.Translated by Mikhail M. Trufanov.