In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Environmental Research Letters*, researchers have quantified the global impact of tropical cyclones on oceanic near-inertial internal waves (NIWs), shedding light on a critical yet poorly understood energy transfer process. Led by Gengbin Liu of the Department of Ocean Science and Engineering at Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, China, the research integrates satellite-tracked surface drifter data and refined tropical cyclone (TC) records to estimate the contribution of these powerful storms to near-inertial wind power (NIWP).
NIWs are a key driver of upper-ocean turbulent mixing, a process that influences ocean circulation, climate, and marine ecosystems. Tropical cyclones, with their intense and variable winds, generate significant NIWs, but their global impact has remained elusive due to observational and methodological challenges. Liu and his team developed a novel data-driven model to overcome these hurdles, providing a high-resolution global estimate of TC-induced NIWP.
The findings reveal that tropical cyclones contribute an estimated 0.019–0.024 terawatts (TW) annually to global NIWP, with nearly 45% of this energy input occurring in low-latitude oceans. “This episodic yet substantial energy transfer highlights the important role of tropical cyclones in powering near-inertial internal waves,” Liu explained. The study also identified a notable enhancement in thermocline mixing during TC events, particularly in subtropical regions like the northwestern Pacific, based on fine-scale parameterization.
The implications of this research extend beyond academic interest, with significant commercial impacts for the energy sector. Ocean turbulent mixing influences the efficiency of offshore renewable energy systems, such as wind farms and wave energy converters, by altering ocean stratification and currents. A better understanding of NIW dynamics can help optimize the placement and design of these energy systems, improving their performance and longevity.
Moreover, the study’s findings could inform climate models and improve predictions of ocean circulation and heat transport, which are critical for assessing the impacts of climate change. “By quantifying the contribution of tropical cyclones to near-inertial internal waves, we can enhance our understanding of ocean dynamics and their role in the Earth’s climate system,” Liu said.
As the energy sector increasingly turns to offshore resources, research like Liu’s will be instrumental in shaping future developments. By providing a clearer picture of the complex interactions between tropical cyclones and oceanic processes, this study paves the way for more accurate modeling and better-informed decision-making in the energy industry. The work not only advances our scientific understanding but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing global challenges.