Return to search

Microwave estimates of the extratropical transitions process

Microwave satellite imagery is a valuable tool for the observation of mature tropical cyclones. This study examined the application of microwave data to the extratropical transition (ET) process. During ET a tropical cyclone (TC) moves into an area of large gradients in many atmospheric parameters. The data sparse regions in which these gradients exist make the examination of key physical mechanisms responsible for the ET process difficult. The Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit (AMSU) was used to investigate temperature and water vapor gradients. Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer was used to examine WV gradients and precipitation intensities. These observations were combined with diagnostic analysis of frontogenesis during the ET process of a TC that re-intensified as an extratropical cyclone and a TC that dissipated. Although the different outcomes of ET were related to differences in coupling between the decaying TC and the midlatitude environment, microwave data were useful for defining specific characteristics that either inhibited or enhanced the coupling of the decaying TC with the midlatitude environment.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:nps.edu/oai:calhoun.nps.edu:10945/2244
Date03 1900
CreatorsStubblefield, Cedrick L.
ContributorsHarr, Patrick, Durkee, Phil, Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)., Department of Meteorology
PublisherMonterey California. Naval Postgraduate School
Source SetsNaval Postgraduate School
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis
Formatxiv, 71 p. : ill. (some col.) ;, application/pdf
RightsApproved for public release, distribution unlimited

Page generated in 0.0016 seconds