Climatology and evolution of convective systems combining surface radar and geostationary infrared satellite data during the TRMM field campaigns

We propose to determine the regional and seasonal changes in the vertical structure of convective systems across the Amazon Basin and surrounding areas for at least a six-year period. Radar reflectivity, precipitation, and lightning flash density data from the TRMM satellite will allow us to look in unprecedented detail at the seasonal evolution and regional differences in the detailed precipitation structure of convection for this climatologically important part of the world. NCEP reanalysis data will provide the large-scale context for the seasonal cycle and for regional circulation differences in the Amazon region. We further propose to apply these results to examine the interannual variability of wet season onset using the NASA Seasonal to Interseasonal Prediction Project (NSIPP) GCM, and assess the potential for regional predictability of the wet season onset.

Scholars @ ECU