ABSTI^CT 



The available methods for estimation of wind currents, mass 

 transport velocity by waves and permanent flow (thermohaline 

 gradient current) are briefly summarized and a simplified computer 

 approach is outlined . 



The computed synoptic surface currents are compared with monthly 

 mean current charts and with surface wind conditions . This analysis 

 indicates that the surface currents are greatly wind -driven. A detailed 

 verification procedure which will use the observed changes in sea 

 surface temperature is outlined. 



The use of the synoptic current fields for computation of divergence 

 and convergence and the resulting changes in subsurface thermal 

 structure is described. The relative importance of the synoptic surface 

 currents in ship routing, rescue operations and other practices is reviewed, 



