Four-Dimensional Analysis Experiment During the Gate Period Part II

Abstract

The GATE analysis was repeated utilizing the full GATE data set in the delayed mode and a revised four-dimensional analysis procedure. The resulting maps wore compared with maps of other author. Based on the new analysis, macroscale circulation features for the tropical African continent and Atlantic Ocean region were calculated, and other characteristic phenomena of this area were investigated. The easterly waves, in particular, were studied with respect to their formation, propagation, associated condensation, and possible conversion to hurricanes. It was possible to trace nine distinct easterly waves throughout their entire life history, and the analyzed tracks of thew easterly waves agreed quite well with the subjective analyses of Sadler and Oda (1978). The time sequences of precipitation over the GATE A/B-array obtained by the present analysis and by satellite estimates were compared with some success.