Investigating the Radiative and Thermodynamic Impact of the Unprecedented 2020 “Godzilla” Dust Event

The extraordinary dust event of 2020, colloquially referred to as "Godzilla", presented a remarkable opportunity to explore its profound influence on atmospheric dynamics, radiative processes, and thermodynamic profiles. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the radiative effects, heating rates, and thermodynamic characteristics associated with the Godzilla dust event. To achieve this, we adopt an integrated approach utilizing the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA-2) reanalysis data, satellite observations, and advanced radiative transfer models.

We provide an in-depth examination of the MERRA-2 reanalysis dataset, enabling a spatiotemporal characterization of the Godzilla event and a reconstruction of a new Jordan Mean Sounding during this event. We incorporate GOES satellite measurements, encompassing aerosol vertical profiles, to quantitatively assess the distribution and loading of aerosol particles during the event. These satellite-derived aerosol properties serve as crucial inputs for conducting rigorous radiative transfer simulations.

By harnessing the Fu-Liou-Gu radiative transfer model, we simulate the radiative impacts of the Godzilla dust event on both shortwave and longwave radiation fluxes within the atmosphere. The observed aerosol properties are assimilated into the models, thereby enabling a comprehensive analysis of direct and indirect radiative effects arising from the interaction of dust particles with solar and thermal radiation. Furthermore, we meticulously evaluate the associated heating rates across various atmospheric levels, thereby elucidating the vertical distribution of radiative heating linked to the dust event. This research advances our comprehension of extreme dust events' intricate radiative and thermodynamic impacts, contributing vital knowledge to atmospheric models and developing effective mitigation strategies.