Springtime Intensification of Mesoscale Eddies in the Southeastern Tropical Indian Ocean

Mesoscale eddies in the southeastern tropical Indian Ocean (SETIO) regulate regional circulation and heat redistribution. Using satellite altimetry and the GLORYS12V1 ocean reanalysis for 1993–2024, we identify a significant long‐term increase in eddy kinetic energy (EKE) in the SETIO. The trend exhibits pronounced seasonal asymmetry, with the intensification concentrated on austral spring (September–November), indicating an amplification of the seasonal EKE cycle. Energy diagnostics reveal that the springtime EKE intensification is primarily driven by enhanced baroclinic energy conversion rather than barotropic processes. The intensified baroclinic instability is associated with enhanced horizontal density gradients during late winter and spring. Further analyses suggest that strengthened coastal upwelling south of Java and increased wind energy input to the upper ocean likely contribute to the observed springtime EKE enhancement. These findings advance our understanding of eastern boundary eddy dynamics.