Convectively Coupled Kelvin Waves: From Linear Theory to Global Models

The authors analyze composite structures of tropical convectively coupled Kelvin waves (CCKWs) in terms of the theory of Raymond and Fuchs using radiosonde data, 3D analysis and reanalysis model output, and annual integrations with the ECMWF model on the full planet and on an aquaplanet. Precipitati...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of the atmospheric sciences 2016-01, Vol.73 (1), p.407-428
Main Authors: Herman, Michael J, Fuchs, Zeljka, Raymond, David J, Bechtold, Peter
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Agreements
Atmospheric models
Columns (structural)
Composite structures
Gravity
Inhibition
Joining
Kelvin waves
Meteorology
Moisture
Precipitation
Three dimensional models
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Summary:The authors analyze composite structures of tropical convectively coupled Kelvin waves (CCKWs) in terms of the theory of Raymond and Fuchs using radiosonde data, 3D analysis and reanalysis model output, and annual integrations with the ECMWF model on the full planet and on an aquaplanet. Precipitation anomalies are estimated using the NOAA interpolated OLR and TRMM 3B42 datasets, as well as using model OLR and rainfall diagnostics. Derived variables from these datasets are used to examine assumptions of the theory. Large-scale characteristics of wave phenomena are robust in all datasets and models where Kelvin wave variance is large. Indices from the theory representing column moisture and convective inhibition are also robust. The results suggest that the CCKW is highly dependent on convective inhibition, while column moisture does not play an important role.
ISSN:0022-4928
1520-0469
DOI:10.1175/JAS-D-15-0153.1