Satellite Views of the Tropical Cyclone Lifecycle

The depiction of tropical cyclones (TCs) lifecycle as viewed by commonly available satellite observations is presented. The analysis concentrates on tropical cyclones that achieve hurricane strength without making landfall. Similar to Emanuel (2000) data are composited with respect to the first occurrence of the lifetime maximum intensity. The results show that TCs tend to linearly increase in intensity to their maximum lifetime intensity and then linearly weaken, confirming Emanuel (2000). However, the structures and changes in structure as viewed by satellite are quite different between intensifying and weakening phases of TCs.

This poster will present composite average TC lifecycles with respect to lifetime maximum intensity as seen in infrared imagery, microwave-sounder-derived temperatures and winds, and GPS radio occultation temperature retrievals. The structural differences between intensifying and weakening phases will be detailed and the meteorological and climatological implications of those differenced discussed. In addition, where the data permits, important inter-basin differences will be highlighted.

Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and findings contained in this report are those of the authors and should not be construed as an official National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or U.S. Government position, policy, or decision.