Role of gravity waves in vertical coupling during sudden stratospheric warmings

TL;DR

This paper reviews how gravity waves generated in the lower atmosphere influence the upper atmosphere during sudden stratospheric warmings, highlighting recent modeling advances and their impact on atmospheric circulation.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in modeling and understanding gravity wave effects on vertical atmospheric coupling during sudden stratospheric warmings.

Findings

Gravity waves significantly affect upper atmospheric circulation.

Recent models improve understanding of gravity wave propagation.

Gravity waves play a key role in vertical coupling during warmings.

Abstract

Gravity waves are primarily generated in the lower atmosphere, and can reach thermospheric heights in the course of their propagation. This paper reviews the recent progress in understanding the role of gravity waves in vertical coupling during sudden stratospheric warmings. Modeling of gravity wave effects is briefly reviewed, and the recent developments in the field are presented. Then, the impact of these waves on the general circulation of the upper atmosphere is outlined. Finally, the role of gravity waves in vertical coupling between the lower and the upper atmosphere is discussed in the context of sudden stratospheric warmings.