Examining the Role of Cloud Radiative Interactions in Tropical Cyclone Development Using Satellite Measurements and WRF Simulations

This study examines the role of cloud‐radiative interactions in the development of tropical cyclones using satellite measurements and model simulations. Previous modeling studies have found that the enhanced cloud radiative heating from longwave radiation in the convective region plays a key role in promoting the development of tropical convective systems. Here, we use satellite measurements and Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) simulations to further investigate how critical cloud radiative interactions are to the development of tropical cyclones (TCs). Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System measurements show that intensifying TCs have greater radiative heating from clouds within the TC area than weakening ones. Based on this result, idealized WRF simulations are performed to examine the importance of the enhanced radiative heating to TC intensification. Sensitivity experiments demonstrate that removing cloud‐radiative interactions often inhibits tropical cyclogenesis, suggesting that cloud‐radiative interactions play a critical role. Plain Language Summary It is difficult to accurately predict tropical cyclone (TC) formation. To better understand TC formation, we analyzed the relationship between energy from infrared radiation and TC formation through satellite observations and computer simulations. It was found that TCs with a greater amount of radiative heating from clouds are more likely to intensify over the next few days. Moreover, the probability of TC formation will decrease if the interaction between clouds and radiative heating is blocked. This result suggests that understanding how radiative heating strengthens TCs may improve the performance of hurricane forecasting. Key Points Tropical cyclones (TCs) that intensify tend to receive greater radiative heating from clouds prior to intensification Radiative heating within the TC area creates positive feedbacks to strengthen TC intensity Removing cloud‐radiative interactions in numerical models slows or inhibits tropical cyclogenesis