 |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The primary mission of this research program is to gain a better understanding of the synoptic and planetary-scale atmospheric processes contribute to the formation and maintenance of such atmospheric phenomenon known as blocking anticyclones and how interannual variations and/or global climate change may impact on their characteristics and occurrence. Blocking anticyclones are planetary-scale phenomenon, which have an impact, not only on the regions they occur in, but also within regions upstream and downstream of the main event. In examining the issues of interannual variability of blocking and changes in their climatological characteristics, and variability of the primary variables of the atmosphere’s global circulation, local climate change issues can also be addressed. For example, this program endeavors to examine the climatic and dynamic characteristics of heavy snowfalls, general precipitation, and tornadoes in the Midwest. We have shown that there is significant interannual variability in these local phenomenon which can be related to El Nino and longer-term climatic variability. This group has also examined the changes in the climatic character of Atlantic Basin hurricane intensities. Additionally, we will address the length of the growing season in Missouri. These issues will be explored in cooperation with the Missouri Climate Center and the National Weather Service Forecast Offices in Pleasant Hill, MO, and Springfield, MO. In examining and identifying the interannual variability and/or long term trends (climate change) for these events, the interests of the local agricultural and public sectors will be served. |
Enclosed is an archive of Northern and Southern Hemisphere blocking events including complete information regarding when and where they occurred, and their intensity as defined by Weidenmann et al. (2002). Here is the conference paper that discusses the new data sets.
Northern Hemisphere Events 1968 - 2008
Northern Hemisphere Events 1968 (July 1) - 2008 (up to 4 May 2008) in PDF formatThe Northern Hemisphere duration and intensity records are complete from 1968 - 2002 and for 2004-2008. The period 2002-2004 needs to be "tweaked" and the intensities and genesis latitude need to be added.
Southern Hemisphere Events 1970 - 2008 are now here!
Southern Hemisphere Events 1970 - 2008 (up to 4 May 2008) in PDF format| Copyright © 2007 Department of Soil, Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Missouri - Columbia |