Baroclinic dynamics of simulated tropical cyclone recurvature

The mechanisms associated with tropical cyclone recurvature are investigated using a five-level primitive equation model and an idealized environment with characteristics observed in cyclone recurvature conditions. It is shown that recurvature can occur through an initially unbroken subtropical ridge, but that the presence of a midlatitude trough substantially enhances the potential for recurvature. However, while changes in the upper troposphere are indicative of recurvature potential, recurvature is accomplished largely by lower-tropospheric changes. An important component of this change is the development of a major anticyclone poleward and eastward of the cyclone. A recent observational study by Ford et al. concurs with this finding. -from Authors