The role of aerosol in altering North Atlantic atmospheric circulation in winter and its impact on air quality

The role of aerosol in altering North Atlantic atmospheric circulation in winter and its impact on air quality [1]

Numerical model scenarios of future climate depict a global increase in temperatures and changing precipitation patterns, primarily driven by increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations. Aerosol particles also play an important role by altering the Earth's radiation budget and consequently surface temperature. Here, we use the general circulation aerosol model ECHAM5-HAM, coupled to a mixed layer ocean model, to investigate the impacts of future air pollution mitigation strategies in Europe on winter atmospheric circulation over the North Atlantic. We analyse the extreme case of a maximum feasible end-of-pipe reduction of aerosols in the near future (2030), in combination with increasing GHG concentrations. Our results show a more positive North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) mean state by 2030, together with a significant eastward shift of the southern centre of action of sea-level pressure (SLP). Moreover, we show a significantly increased blocking frequency over the western Mediterranean.

Publication Date:

19/02/2015

Author(s): F. S. R. Pausata [2], M. Gaetani [3], G. Messori & et al [4]

Source: Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics [5]

Vol:

pp:

1725-1743

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