The internal seiche field in the changing South Aral Sea (2006–2013)
Abstract. Internal standing waves (seiches) in the South Aral Sea are studied for the first time. The study, based on numerical simulations and field data and, focuses on two different campaigns: the first in autumn 2006, when the stratification was weak, and the second in autumn 2013, when it was strong. During this time, the sea surface level decreased 3.2 m but differences in stratification depend only on the time when the campaigns were carried out because the maximum density gradient decreases even though the sea continues to become saltier. In 2006 there was a mild prevailing northeasterly wind and in 2013 a mild easterly wind. The fundamental modes were identified as 36 h and 14 h, respectively. For both years we focused on the sub-inertial modes which were found to be either second or third vertical modes. In general, the vertical modes in 2013 are higher because of the strong stratification. For both years, it was found that the quasi homogeneous mixed deep upper layer could sustain internal waves under mild wind conditions. Regarding the horizontal structure, in 2006 they are first and second modes and in 2013 second and third horizontal modes. The results suggest that, due to sea level variations, the neck connecting the Chernyshev Bay to the main body of the lake can become critical for the development a nodal line in that neck.