Wake response to an ocean-feedback mechanism: Madeira Island case study

TL;DR

This paper investigates how ocean feedback mechanisms, particularly sea surface temperature variability, influence atmospheric wake regimes over Madeira Island using numerical modeling.

Contribution

It introduces the role of SST variability in wake regime shifts, expanding beyond traditional adiabatic dynamics considerations.

Findings

SST variability can induce wake regime shifts.

Increased evaporation enhances convection and uplift of atmospheric layers.

Internal gravity wave activity is linked to SST-induced changes.

Abstract

This discussion focused on the numerical study of a wake episode. The Weather Research and Forecasting model was used in a downscale mode. The current literature focuses the discussion on the adiabatic dynamics of atmospheric wakes. Changes in mountain height and consequently on its relation to the atmospheric inversion layer should explain the shift in wake regimes: from a 'strong-wake' to a 'weak-wake' scenario. Nevertheless, changes in SST variability can also induce similar regime shifts. Increase in evaporation, contributes to increase convection and thus to an uplift of the stratified atmospheric layer, above the critical height, with subsequent internal gravity wave activity.