A Pilot Analysis of the Curvature of Extratropical Storms.
Abstract
Curvature properties of satellite cloud patterns are examined for the purpose of defining indirect measures of intensity and motion of extratropical storms. The distribution of centers of curvature among concentric cloud bands near the storm center is used to objectively locate the center of the storm and to derive a parameter related to storm intensity. This intensity parameter is proportional to the radius and number of concentric cloud bands and appears useful for describing time variations of strength of the storm's circulation. A model hyperbolic spiral is also used to characterize the primary spiral cloud band of extratropical disturbances. The calculated intensity of the spiral appears useful for measuring the development of the storm as depicted by the 500 mb relative vorticity. The asymptote of the spiral may also be a reasonably good predictor of the direction of the following 12-hourly storm trajectory. Perhaps, the most promising application of the techniques is for remotely monitoring by satellite the strength of vortices over ocean regions. Previous efforts under the contract have been concerned with the application of the above techniques to tropical storms. The details of this study have been reported separately in an earlier report 'Objective Tropical Storm Parameters from Satellite Cloud Patterns.' An abstract of the first report is included as preface to this report. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 02, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA027412
Entities
People
- D. G. Dartt
Organizations
- Control Data Corporation