Analysis of easterly waves in the YOTC period

Easterly waves are a major contributor to variability of rainfall in many parts of the tropics impacting rainfall on daily timescales as well as providing precursors for tropical cyclones. This presentation will consider the nature of the tropical easterly waves that occurred in the Year of Tropical Convection (YOTC) period between August 2008 and present. Diagnostics that combine high resolution ECMWF analyses and forecasts will be exploited together with satellite products, to highlight easterly wave structures and how these vary geographically. Emphasis will be given to the relationship between easterly wave phase and convection including assessment of what causes the regional variations in this. Some intense events will be highlighted including events that were associated with tropical cyclogenesis.