Tropical meteorology
Introduction
Tropical meteorology is a specialized branch of meteorology that focuses on the study of weather patterns and phenomena that occur within the tropics. The tropics, also known as the tropical zone, is a region of the Earth located approximately between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. This area is characterized by generally warm or hot temperatures year-round, with significant rainfall.
Tropical Climate
The tropical climate is a non-arid climate in which all twelve months have mean temperatures of at least 18 °C (64.4 °F). This type of climate is found in the tropics, where the sun is directly overhead at least once during the year. The tropical climate is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with a relatively narrow annual temperature range. Precipitation in tropical climates is often heavy, and can occur year-round or be seasonally restricted.
Tropical Weather Systems
Tropical weather systems are distinct from those in mid-latitude areas due to the unique atmospheric conditions found in the tropics. These include tropical cyclones, monsoons, and trade winds.
Tropical Cyclones
Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes or typhoons, are intense low-pressure weather systems characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall. They form over warm ocean waters near the equator, where the sea surface temperature is typically above 26.5 °C (79.7 °F). The heat and moisture from the warm ocean surface contribute to the development and intensification of tropical cyclones.
Monsoons
Monsoons are seasonal wind patterns that bring significant rainfall. They are caused by differences in heat absorption between the ocean and land, leading to changes in atmospheric pressure. These pressure changes drive winds and influence the climate, often resulting in a wet season and a dry season in many tropical regions.
Trade Winds
Trade winds are prevailing patterns of easterly surface winds found in the tropics. They were named by the sailors who used these winds to cross the world’s oceans. The trade winds blow predominantly from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere.
Tropical Meteorology Research
Research in tropical meteorology involves the use of various tools and techniques to study and predict tropical weather patterns and phenomena. This includes the use of weather satellites, radar, weather balloons, and computer models.
Weather Satellites
Weather satellites provide a view of the Earth’s atmosphere from space, allowing meteorologists to track weather systems and monitor changes in atmospheric conditions. They are particularly useful for monitoring tropical cyclones, which can be difficult to track from the ground due to their location over the ocean.
Radar
Radar is used to detect and track precipitation, such as rain, snow, or hail. In tropical meteorology, radar is often used to monitor the structure and intensity of tropical cyclones, as well as to track the movement of monsoon systems.
Weather Balloons
Weather balloons, also known as radiosondes, are used to measure atmospheric conditions, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind speed and direction. They are launched into the atmosphere and transmit data back to a receiving station on the ground.
Computer Models
Computer models are used to simulate the Earth’s climate system and predict future weather patterns. In tropical meteorology, these models are used to forecast the development and movement of tropical cyclones, as well as to predict the onset and intensity of monsoon seasons.