Microwave estimates of the extratropical transitions process
Authors
Stubblefield, Cedrick L.
Subjects
Advisors
Harr, Patrick
Durkee, Phil
Date of Issue
2005-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
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.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Meteorology (MR)
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xiv, 71 p. : ill. (some col.) ;
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.