Local vertical fluxes of energy and momentum are parameterized by a method that involves a spectrum of differently sized eddies. Simulations based on this method indicate that the diurnal changes in the surface heat flux should affect the dynamics of the upper equatorial ocean to a considerable extent. In particular, they predict the existence of significant diurnal changes in the surface drift velocity. A lack of balance between the torques exerted by the wind stress, the zonal buoyancy gradient, and zonal advection suggests that meridional eddy transports and their variation with depth must play and essential role in the local dynamics. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1987