The continuum of summertime Southern Hemisphere atmospheric teleconnection patterns

In contrast with many previous studies that have focused on a discrete modal perspective of Southern Hemisphere (SH) atmospheric teleconnection patterns, this study uses a self-organizing map (SOM) analysis to characterize the continuum of extended summer (November - March) teleconnection patterns in the mid-tropospheric geopotential height field. The SOM analysis presents a finite number of representative 500 hPa geopotential height patterns that represent the continuum of SH teleconnection patterns. This analysis reveals twelve unique, statistically distinguishable patterns that exhibit strong Southern Annular Mode-like zonal symmetry, meridionally oriented dipoles, zonally oriented wave trains, and mixed features. Lagged composite analyses with physical and biogeochemical variables provide a thorough characterization of the interaction of these SOM patterns with the underlying surface ocean, Southern Ocean biology, and SH atmospheric circulation.