Analysis and numerical simulations of the Saharan air layer and its effect on easterly wave disturbances

Abstract

Topics treated in the discussion include 1) the interaction of the SAL with attendant easterly wave disturbances, 2) the frontal structure of the SAL along the leading and southern boundary of the SAL, 3) forcing of vertical motions and the tranvserve/vertical circulations in the SAL front, 4) the nature of the anticyclone curvature of the SAL plume along the coast of Africa and 5) the role of aerosol radiative heating in preserving the characteritics of the SAL as it moves toward the west. A significant conclusion is that the SAL contributes to forcing of vertical motions and cumulus convection and is therefore important (if not necessary) in the initial development of some easterly wave disturbances. -from Authors