Exploring the Role of Cloud Radiative Feedback in Tropical Cyclogenesis Utilizing Satellite and Reanalysis Datasets
Journal
Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences
Journal Volume
82
Journal Issue
6
Start Page
1137
End Page
1160
ISSN
0022-4928
1520-0469
Date Issued
2025-06
Author(s)
Hsu, Chun-Kai
Abstract
Recent studies based on modeling frameworks have shown that cloud radiative feedback can accelerate the early stage development of tropical cyclones (TCs). In this study, we utilize satellite data from the Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) and CloudSat, along with the fifth major global reanalysis produced by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) (ERA5), to explore the role of cloud radiative feedback in TC genesis by comparing developing (DEV) and nondeveloping (NDEV) TC seeds in their early stages. Results show that cloud longwave heating dominates the positive feedback of convective organization and drives a transverse circulation, which assists in moistening the inner core of the incipient vortex. In contrast, shortwave plays a minor role and modulates the diurnal structure variation. The comparison between DEV and NDEV systems reveals that the DEV group exhibits more vigorous convection near the vortex center, generating stronger cloud longwave feedback and circulation response, which further favors TC genesis. The examination of environmental factors further demonstrates that vigorous convection in the DEV system is associated with less ventilation, primarily attributed to weaker vertical wind shear (VWS) and lower midlevel entropy deficit.
Subjects
Cloud radiative effects
Cyclogenesis/cyclolysis
Tropical cyclones
Publisher
American Meteorological Society
Type
journal article