09/25/2006
Understanding the Physical Factors that Affect Hurricane Properties
Summary
The study demonstrates for the first time that Model “20th century” simulations that combine anthropogenic and natural forcing, are generally capable of replicating observed sea surface temperature (SST) increases. In modeling experiments where forcing factors are varied individually rather than jointly, human-caused changes in greenhouse gases are the main driver of the 20th century SST increases in both tropical cyclogenesis regions. Hurricane activity is influenced by a variety of physical factors, such as SST, wind shear, moisture availability, and atmospheric stability. In a recent study published in the September 12th issue of the Proceedings of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, Office of Science-sponsored researchers have examined SST changes over the 20th century in hurricane formation regions.
References
Santer, B.D., T.M.L. Wigley, P.J. Gleckler, C. Bonfils, M.F. Wehner, K. AchutaRao, T.P. Barnett, J.S. Boyle, W. Br¨uggemannk, M. Fiorino, N. Gillett, J.E. Hansen, P.D. Jones, S.A. Klein, G.A. Meehl, S.C.B. Raper, R.W. Reynolds, K.E. Taylor, and W.M. Washington. 2006. “Forced and unforced ocean temperature changes in Atlantic and Pacific tropical cyclogenesis regions,” Proc Nat. Acad. Sciences, September 12, 2006, 10.1073/pnas.0602861103