Current understanding of the inseparable cloud-radiation and ice-albedo feedbacks (Invited Presentation)

The cloud-radiation and ice-albedo feedbacks are inextricably linked in nature. Changes in the net radiative flux at the surface promote changes in the surface conditions (e.g., ice extent) which both directly and indirectly feedback onto the cloud-radiative feedback. The cloud-radiative feedback is directly influenced by changes in surface radiative properties. There is a positive feedback between ice extent which determines the area-average surface albedo and the net radiative flux at the surface. While at the same time, the cloud-radiative feedback is also influenced by changes in surface moisture availability. How clouds will respond to a change in the surface moisture availability is not clear because of the myriad of other complex dynamic and thermodynamic processes that combine to determine cloud evolution. In this presentation, the present understanding of the processes that contribute to the cloud-radiative feedback in the Arctic is described. Unresolved issues are explored through modeling and analysis of SHEBA data.