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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
13:27
Exploring the Effects of Atmospheric Forcings on Evaporation: Experimental Integration of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer and Shallow Subsurface
Published on: June 8, 2015
A Madden-Julian oscillation event realistically simulated by a global cloud-resolving model
Hiroaki Miura1, Masaki Satoh, Tomoe Nasuno
1Frontier Research Center for Global Change, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, 3173-25 Showamachi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-0001, Japan. miurah@jamstec.go.jp
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|December 15, 2007
Summary
The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is now simulated more accurately. This breakthrough in weather modeling paves the way for month-long MJO predictions, improving global climate forecasts.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Climate Modeling
- Meteorology
Background:
- The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a major global weather phenomenon influencing climate systems.
- Accurate MJO simulation is challenging due to complexities in global meteorological models, particularly regarding cumulus cloud assumptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and utilize a novel model for simulating MJO events.
- To investigate the factors influencing the eastward propagation of MJO convection.
Main Methods:
- Employed a global cloud-resolving model with direct atmospheric circulation and cloud coupling.
- Analyzed the impact of topography, sea surface temperature gradients, and wave interactions on MJO timing.
Main Results:
- Successfully simulated the slow eastward migration characteristic of MJO events.
- Identified key drivers for the transition of the convective center, including topography and SST gradients.
- Demonstrated the feasibility of month-long MJO predictions.
Conclusions:
- Directly coupled cloud-atmosphere models offer a pathway to improved MJO simulation.
- Accurate initial conditions and advanced modeling are crucial for predicting MJO events.
- This research enhances our capability for extended-range weather and climate forecasting.
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