Convective outflow and air-sea interaction during DYNAMO: Large-eddy simulation results

In this study, we present results from a large-eddy simulation coupled to an ocean mixed layer model for an idealized setting representing the Indian Ocean. The model shows that precipitating convective cloud systems produce significant variations in surface fluxes through the formation and propagation of boundary layer cold pools produced by evaporating rainfall. These cold pools enhance surface fluxes and convergence, leading to the formation of new convective cells when cold pools intersect. Enhancement of latent heat flux in cold pool outflow ranges from 100-200 W m^-2 depending on the strength of the convective system. Cases with and without significant large-scale wind shear are presented and contrasted with cold pool composites generated from data collected during the DYNAMO experiment.