Changes in the cloud properties in response to El Nino: a bivariate approach

摘要: We analyse the dependence of cloud radiative effect (CRE) and amount on mid-tropospheric pressure velocity (ω500) sea surface temperature (SST) point out shortcomings using these two proxies separately as means to separate regimes. A bivariate approach is proposed overcome it used systematically investigate marine properties at different spatial time scales in present-day (1985–2001) tropical climate. During 1997–1998 El Nino, greatest regional change CRE cover coincides with local circulation SST. In addition, we find that cooling stratiform low clouds reduces rate approximately 1 W/m2 per percent cloudiness reduction subsident cold pools Pacific ocean. transition between regimes gives rise opposing feedbacks. The sign total feedback controlled by optical thickness. More generally, largest part response when averaged over Pacific, not directly associated ω500 SST changes, so other factors must play a role well.