Title: Potential vorticity aspects of the association between the MJO and convectively coupled Kelvin waves.

Abstract: Previous works have demonstrated that the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) is associated with a substantial footprint in potential vorticity. I will describe a simple analysis of observations and reanalysis data that demonstrates contrary to some recent works that most of the potential vorticity generated in the lower to middle troposphere in association with the MJO actually develops in association with convectively coupled Kelvin waves. I will also discuss other aspects of empirical analysis of PV in the MJO, including the potential contributions of breaking extratropical waves.

Speaker website: http://www.atmos.albany.edu/facstaff/roundy/

Host: Dan Chavas (drchavas@mit.edu)