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East Pacific Easterly Wave Representation in CMIP6 Models
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  • Rosa Maria Vargas-Martes,
  • Ángel F. Adames-Corraliza,
  • Victor C. Mayta,
  • Qiao-Jun Lin
Rosa Maria Vargas-Martes
University of Wisconsin-Madison

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Ángel F. Adames-Corraliza
University of Wisconsin System
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Victor C. Mayta
University of Wisconsin, Madison
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Qiao-Jun Lin
University of Wisconsin-Madison
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Abstract

The representation of easterly waves (EWs) over the east Pacific Ocean (PEWs) in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) simulations is examined. Models are assessed based on their ability of reproducing PEW-related precipitation and its evolution. The leading patterns reveal a large spread in the representation of PEW structure and amplitude. A comparison of the models with the most realistic PEWs with those with unrealistically weak PEW skill showed that the more accurate simulations more effectively capture the mean state and EW thermodynamic structures over the northeast Pacific. Particularly, good models exhibit realistic PEW precipitation, weaker meridional mean state humidity gradients, larger mean state precipitation over the Panama Bight, and realistic convective moisture adjustment timescales. These results underscore the importance of accurately representing the sensitivity of PEW convection to anomalous moisture for the realistic representation of the waves.
29 Oct 2024Submitted to ESS Open Archive
01 Nov 2024Published in ESS Open Archive