Synoptic-Scale Environments of Predecessor Rain Events Occurring East of the Rocky Mountains in Association with Atlantic Basin Tropical Cyclones

The synoptic-scale environments of predecessor rain events (PREs) occurring to the east of the Rocky Mountains in association with Atlantic basin tropical cyclones (TCs) are examined. PREs that occurred during 1988-2010 are subjectively classified based upon the synoptic-scale upper-level flow configuration within which the PRE develops, with a focus on the following: 1) the position of the jet streak relative to the TC, 2) the position of the jet streak relative to trough and ridge axes, and 3) the positions of trough and ridge axes relative to the PRE and to the TC. Three categories were identified from this classification procedure: "jet in ridge," "southwesterly jet," and "downstream confluence." PRE-relative composite analysis for each category reveals that, consistent with previous studies, PREs typically occur near a low-level baroclinic zone, beneath the equatorward entrance region of an upper-level jet streak, and in the presence of a stream of water vapor from a TC. Despite these common characteristics, key differences exist among the three PRE categories related to the phasing of a TC with the synoptic-scale flow and to the interactions between a TC and its environment. Brief case studies of PREs associated with TC Rita (2005), TC Wilma (2005), and TC Ernesto (2006) are presented as specific examples of the three PRE categories.