Role of the Qinghai-Xizang plateau in feedback mechanisms affecting the planetary circulation
It has been recognized for some time that the Qinghai-Xizang plateau is of great importance in generating planetary long-waves which, in resonance with similar waves induced by the Rocky Mountains, lead to the familiar pattern of quasi-stationary Rossby waves observed on monthly-mean upper level pressure charts. Seasonal forcing of flow patterns also appears to be particularly strong in the Qinghai-Xizang plateau region. Recent investigations suggest that the Qinghai-Xizang plateau may also be involved in feedback mechanisms which control in an important way the interannual variability of the general circulation of the atmosphere. It appears that the effects of the Qinghai-Xizang plateau on the interannual variability of the atmospheric circulation over Asia are but one important manifestation of a network of feedback mechanisms, ranging from the El Nino problems along the Peruvian coast to droughts in the Sahel region. A better understanding of each of the mechanisms involved will lead us closer to successful long-range forecasting of some of the weather phenomena which have a considerable effect on local and regional economics.
- Research Organization:
- Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins (USA). Dept. of Atmospheric Science
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AS02-76EV01340
- OSTI ID:
- 5164517
- Report Number(s):
- COO-1340-74
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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