Sea surface salinity changes along the Fiji-Japan shipping track during the 1996 La Niña and 1997 El Niño period

摘要: Sea-surface salinity (SSS) changes during the 1996 La Nina and 1997 El Nino events are analysed along Fiji-Japan shipping track, based on 20 thermosalinograph sections. In equatorial band, above-average SSS (35.2 to 35.4 instead of 35) were observed in 1996, consistent with a well-marked south current, an unusually-strong upwelling, below-average precipitation (P). From January August 1997, decreased sharply from 35.2 33.8 (lowest recorded monthly value over last years), compatible reversal zonal occurrence downwelling, P. September November remained almost constant (34.2), opposite effects eastward likely bringing low saline water Pacific warm pool, evaporative cooling, vertical mixing P which all tend increase SSS. The potential impacts sea level discussed.