This Project Grant award of $711,800 from the National Science Foundation's Geosciences Program (CFDA 47.050) supports research by Colorado State University to investigate the impact of tropical Pacific Ocean rain layers on weather and climate patterns, such as the Madden-Julian Oscillation and El Niño events. The research explores how the formation of a cold lid, or stable layer, from fresh rainwater on the ocean surface can delay and then intensify convective cloud development, with implications for large-scale atmospheric circulation and precipitation patterns. The project uses a combination of high-resolution regional climate models and the Community Earth System Model to simulate these rain layer effects, including under future climate scenarios with increased carbon dioxide levels. The research aims to improve the representation of these critical air-sea interactions in weather and climate prediction models, which could enhance forecasts of high-impact phenomena like landfalling hurricanes and atmospheric rivers. The principal investigators also provide training and mentorship opportunities for graduate students and undergraduate interns as part of the award.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $711.8k | 4/10/24 |