Response of the atmosphere to sea surface temperature anomalies over the equatorial Pacific and the teleconnections of the Southern Oscillation.

Abstract

In order to improve our understanding of the role of equatorial Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Southern Oscillation and the variability of the Walker Circulation, we have conducted sensitivity studies with warm SSTA's over different parts of the equatorial Pacific using a general circulation model of GFDL. The model response is compared with the variability of the 15-year control run and the statistical significance of the response is assessed. -from Author