The Atlantic Ocean near Cape Hatteras, N.C. is often called the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to the complex ocean currents and weather conditions that have historically caused numerous shipwrecks.

Dr. Dana Savidge

University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography researcher Dana Savidge will present an Evening @ Skidaway program to explore some of the oceanic mysteries of that area, and describe her search for answers. The program will be presented on Tuesday, April 10, in the McGowan Library on the University of Georgia Skidaway Marine Science Campus (10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411). The event will begin with a reception at 6:15 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m.

The coastal ocean near Cape Hatteras is a challenging and exciting area in which to investigate ocean circulation. The region is beset by numerous tropical storms and hurricanes, ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream, strong seasonal winds and waves, and unusually strong local gradients in water temperature and salinity. The dynamic ocean response to this complexity accounts for the region’s navigational treachery, and its ominous nickname.

A mix of state of the art oceanographic tools and models have recently been deployed to the area to assist researchers in understanding how circulation evolves there. In her talk, Savidge will explore the region, the intriguing mix of tools, the new windows they will open into this environment and the rationale for why new knowledge is needed there.

The program is open to the public, and admission is free. Space is limited. To reserve a seat, please call (912) 598-2325 or email mike.sullivan@skio.uga.edu.