Physical ocean environment in the South Pacific Commission Area: UNEP Regional Seas Reports and Studies No. 83

This document provides an assessment of the physical ocean environment within the South Pacific Commission (SPC) Area, focusing on its geography, meteorology, oceanography, and hydrology. It outlines the vast geographic extent of the region, emphasizing its insular nature and dominant oceanic characteristics. The report discusses atmospheric patterns such as trade winds, convergence zones, and seasonal variability in precipitation, highlighting their impact on ocean surface dynamics. It also explores the structure and circulation of ocean waters, describing key processes like equatorial and coastal upwelling, thermohaline and wind-induced currents, and vertical stratification. The document further examines the collection and analysis of oceanographic data, including the use of hydrological stations and remote sensing tools. Special attention is given to water mass characteristics, salinity, temperature profiles, and density gradients, linking them to broader climatic and biological processes.