Science · Meteorology
how do katabatic winds influence coastal fog persistence and distribution?
Katabatic winds influence coastal fog by altering the local balance of temperature, humidity, and turbulence in the lowest atmosphere. Katabatic winds are dense, downslope flows that accelerate under gravity; when
how do mesoscale ocean eddies influence hurricane eyewall replacement cycles?
Mesoscale ocean eddies alter the upper-ocean environment that sustains a tropical cyclone, and those changes can modulate the timing and intensity of eyewall replacement cycles. Observational and modeling work links
why do nocturnal low-level jets form over plains?
Nocturnal low-level jets over plains arise from the interaction of surface cooling, wind shear, and Earth's rotation. During daytime, turbulent mixing ties near-surface winds to the winds aloft; after sunset,
why do mesoscale convective systems organize into long-lived squall lines?
Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) organize into long-lived squall lines when atmospheric ingredients and internal storm dynamics combine to continuously generate and sustain linear convection. Research by Paul Markowski at Pennsylvania
how do mountain waves influence high altitude turbulence?
Airflow over mountain ranges can set up organized oscillations in the atmosphere known as mountain waves. David Durran University of Washington and Robert B. Smith University of Reading have both
what mechanisms cause sudden stratospheric warming events?
Sudden stratospheric warming events arise when large-scale atmospheric waves transfer energy and momentum from the troposphere into the polar stratosphere, disrupting the normal wintertime circulation. These events begin when planetary-scale
how do atmospheric pressure gradients drive wind patterns?
Atmospheric pressure gradients are the proximate cause of wind: air accelerates from regions of higher pressure toward regions of lower pressure under the influence of the pressure gradient force. Horizontal
what role do aerosols play in cloud formation?
Aerosols are tiny particles suspended in the atmosphere that act as the seeds around which cloud droplets and ice crystals form. By serving as cloud condensation nuclei for liquid clouds
how does urban heat island affect convective storms?
Urban areas modify the atmosphere in ways that can change how and where convective storms form. Observations and modeling show that the urban heat island raises surface temperatures relative to
what causes rapid intensification of tropical cyclones?
Rapid intensification of tropical cyclones occurs when a storm's maximum sustained winds increase very quickly, most commonly defined by the National Hurricane Center as an increase of at least 30