Hydrometeorology in the Red Sea region: An analysis based on observations and climate downscaling simulation
Shannon Davis
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
28 Nov, Noon, in 2155
Abstract:
The complex terrain surrounding the Red Sea has a profound influence on
atmospheric circulation and global climate processes. Based on in situ
observations and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model climate
downscaled NCEP-FNL simulations, an analysis of the regional
atmospheric dynamics and hydrologic cycle is performed. We advance that
seasonal gap wind jets (the Tokar Gap Jet in particular) and a vigorous
year round land-sea-breeze-cycle (LSBC) frequently enhance lateral
moisture fluxes above basin. The influence of the gap wind jets are
tied to large scale dynamics such as the migration of the Intertropical
Convergence Zone (ITCZ), and the onset of the summer Indian Ocean
monsoons. The LSBC, in contrast, is enhanced by local topographic
elements and sharp gradients in the sensible heat fluxes throughout the
year. The LSBC and the gap wind jets both contribute to mesoscale storm
development above the Red Sea and its surrounding regions.