Non-barotropic Processes of Tropical Cyclone Motion

The motion of tropical cyclone (TC) under the framework of barotropic dynamics (the approximation of the atmosphere as a one-layer structure) is already well-known. However, this physical picture is limited and cannot explain completely the motion of all tropical cyclones. This project aims at extending our understanding of TC motion by studying the effects of several non-barotropic (or baroclinic) parameters. These include potential vorticity, asymmetric convection, and vertical wind shear.

References:

Ko, F. M. F, and J. C. L. Chan, 1999: An observational study on the relationship between potential vorticity distribution and tropical cyclone motion. Preprints, 23rd Conference on Hurricanes and Tropical Meteorology, Dallas, Amer. Meteor. Soc., 84-85.

Lei, Y. M., and J. C. L. Chan, 1999: Relationship between asymmetric convection and tropical cyclone motion. Preprints, 23rd Conference on Hurricanes and Tropical Meteorology, Dallas, Amer. Meteor. Soc., 97-98.