The role of land surface processes on extreme weather events: Land data assimilation system

Abstract

Synoptic conditions are the main drivers for a tropical cyclone (TC) but equally important and not as well studied, is the role that boundary layer interactions play in the life cycle and the intensity of the storm (Bister and Emanuel, 1998; Emanuel, 2004; Hong et al., 2000; Persing et al., 2002; Tuleya, 1994; Tuleya and Kurihara, 1978). After landfall, most tropical systems are deprived of their surface heat source that fuels the storm or the storm system encounters a high shear environment that leads to the eventual decay of the warm core system (Rhome and Raman, 2006). However, some tropical storm systems have re-intensified inland, away from any warm water source. Examples include TS Erin (2007) and TC Abigail (2001) and Hurricane Fran (1996).