The added value to global model projections of climate change by dynamical downscaling: A case study over the continental U.S. using the GISS‐ModelE2 and WRF models

摘要: [1] Dynamical downscaling is being increasingly used for climate change studies, wherein the climates simulated by a coupled atmosphere-ocean general circulation model (AOGCM) historical and future (projected) decade are to drive regional (RCM) over specific area. While previous studies have demonstrated that RCMs can add value AOGCM-simulated climatologies different world regions, it unclear as whether or not this translates better reproduction of observed therein. We address issue continental U.S. using GISS-ModelE2 WRF models, state-of-the-science AOGCM RCM, respectively. As configured here, RCM does effect holistic improvement in seasonally regionally averaged surface air temperature precipitation individual decades. Insofar between two decades concerned, improve upon when nudged domain proper, but only modestly so. Further, analysis indicates there strong relationship skill capturing climatological means change. Though additional research would be needed demonstrate robustness finding AOGCM/RCM models generally, evidence that, most important factor driving global itself, suggesting highest priority should given improving long-range AOGCMs.