The Branching of the Tsushima Current

The branching mechanism of the Tsushima Current is studied by using a multi-level numerical model. The Tsushima Current consists of three branches. The first branch (the nearshore branch) is a topographically controlled current flowing along the Japanese coast with strong barotropy over the continental shelf. This branch is persistent all year round. The second branch is also a topographically controlled current with a subsurface counter current and it shows strong seasonal variability. This branch develops in summer in accordance with the increase of the volume transport of the Tsushima Current through the Tsushima Straits. The third branch (the East Korean Warm Current) is a western boundary current with the dominant viscous and diffusive effects as well as the β effect.