SPATIOTEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF SEA SURFACE SALINITY AND SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE ALONG THE COASTAL REGION OF KARNATAKA

Abstract

This study aims to analyse the spatiotemporal patterns of sea surface salinity (SSS) and sea surface temperature (SST), key parameters affecting the coastal ecosystem of Karnataka, India. The SSS and SST data were obtained from the HYCOM model, a sophisticated oceanographic model that provides high-resolution global ocean data. The analysis of SSS during the monsoon season revealed distinct spatial variations across the studied coastal region, with the most significant increases occurring in Karnataka compared to the west. SST analysis also revealed consistent warming trends in SST across all seasons, particularly during the pre-monsoonal and winter seasons, reflecting reduced freshwater inputs. SSS analysis also reveals a predominance of warming patterns across the area, indicating broader climatic shifts. During the winter season, SSS ranged from 28.45°C to 30.02°C, with 2023 marking the highest mean SST. The spatial distribution and temporal changes in SSS over 30 years provide valuable insights into long-term oceanographic trends and patterns that could be crucial for climate and marine studies. © 2024 IEEE.