Hydrodynamic Changes in the Gulf of California Under Different Climate Change Scenarios: 2015–2100

Metzli Romero-Robles; David Alberto Salas-de-León

doi:10.3390/cli14040079

journal article Open Access Mar 31, 2026

Hydrodynamic Changes in the Gulf of California Under Different Climate Change Scenarios: 2015–2100

Metzli Romero-Robles

David Alberto Salas-de-León

Climate Vol. 14 No. 4 pp. 79 · MDPI AG

View at Publisher Save 10.3390/cli14040079

Abstract

Ocean warming driven by climate change is altering regional circulation patterns and the balance of hydrodynamic forcings in semi-enclosed seas. Understanding how these changes affect ocean circulation and stratification is critical, as they directly influence marine productivity and ecosystem functioning in highly sensitive regions such as the Gulf of California. This study examines the hydrodynamic response of the Gulf of California under three climate change scenarios (SSP1–2.6, SSP2–4.5, SSP5–8.5) projected from 2015 to 2100 using the CNRM-CM6-1-HR global climate model. We evaluate changes in sea surface temperature, surface circulation, and the relative contributions of dominant dynamic forcing mechanisms at annual and interannual scales. Results reveal a basin-wide warming trend accompanied by an increased frequency of extreme heat events. Surface current velocities weaken throughout the Gulf, exhibiting a consistent negative trend, with the strongest decline occurring under SSP5–8.5 in the central basin (−5.1×10−4 m s−1 year−1). Wind speed also shows a general decreasing tendency, contributing to reduced circulation intensity and enhanced stratification. The analysis of dimensionless numbers indicates moderate but consistent changes in the relative balance among inertial, baroclinic, and wind-driven processes. Although their proportions vary slightly across scenarios, the dominant forcing hierarchy remains largely preserved, suggesting a gradual modulation in forcing intensity rather than a fundamental reorganization of the hydrodynamic regime. These findings highlight spatial contrasts in climate sensitivity within the Gulf of California and underscore the importance of regional-scale assessments for anticipating future changes in circulation dynamics and marine ecosystem responses.

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Details

Published: Mar 31, 2026
Vol/Issue: 14(4)
Pages: 79
License: View

Authors

M

Metzli Romero-Robles

Posgrado en Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Mexico City 04510, Mexico

D

David Alberto Salas-de-León

Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Mexico City 04510, Mexico

Funding

National Autonomous University of Mexico Award: CVU 745610

Institute of Marine Sciences and Limnology, National Autonomous University of Mexico Award: 144

DGAPA-PAPIIT Award: IG100421

Cite This Article

Metzli Romero-Robles, David Alberto Salas-de-León (2026). Hydrodynamic Changes in the Gulf of California Under Different Climate Change Scenarios: 2015–2100. Climate, 14(4), 79. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli14040079

Hydrodynamic Changes in the Gulf of California Under Different Climate Change Scenarios: 2015–2100

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