An Examination of Two Pathways to Tropical Cyclogenesis Occurring in Idealized Simulations with a Cloud-Resolving Numerical Model
Abstract
Simulations are conducted with a cloud-resolving numerical model to examine the transformation of a weak incipient mid-level cyclonic vortex into a tropical cyclone. Results demonstrate that two distinct pathways are possible and that development along a particular pathway is sensitive to model physics and initial conditions. One pathway involves a steady increase of the surface winds to tropical cyclone strength as the radius of maximum winds gradually decreases. A notable feature of this evolution is the creation of small-scale cyclonic vorticity anomalies by deep convective towers and subsequent merger and convergence by the low-level secondary circulation. The second pathway also begins with a strengthening low-level circulation, but eventually a significantly stronger mid-level circulation develops. Cyclogenesis subsequently occurs when a small-scale surface concentrated vortex abruptly forms near the center of the larger-scale circulation. The small-scale vortex is warm core throughout the troposphere and results in a local surface pressure fall of a few millibars. It usually develops rapidly undergoing a modest growth to form a small tropical cyclone. Many of the simulated systems approach or reach tropical cyclone strength prior to a prominent mid-level vortex developing so that the subsequent formation of a strong small-scale surface concentrated vortex in these cases could be considered intensification rather than genesis. Experiments are performed to investigate the dependence on the inclusion of the ice phase, radiation, the size and strength of the incipient mid-level vortex, the amount of moisture present in the initial vortex, and the sea surface temperature. Notably, as the sea surface temperature is raised the likelihood of development along the second pathway is increased. This appears to be related to an increased production of ice.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA573888
Entities
People
- M. E. Nicholls
- Michael T. Montgomery
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School