3 research outputs found
COST 733 – WG4: Applications of weather type classifications
Presentación realizada para: European Geosciences Union General Assembly celebrado del 19-24 de abril de 2009 en Viena
Classifications of atmospheric circulation patterns: Recent Advances and Applications
We review recent advances in classifications of circulation patterns as a specific research area within synoptic climatology. The review starts with a general description of goals of classification and the historical development in the field. We put circulation classifications into a broader context within climatology and systematize the varied methodologies and approaches. We characterize three basic groups of classifications, subjective (also called manual), mixed (hybrid), and objective (computer-assisted, automated). The roles of cluster analysis and principal component analysis in the classification process are clarified. Several recent methodological developments in
circulation classifications are identified and briefly described: the introduction of nonlinear methods, objectivization of subjective catalogues, efforts to optimize classifications, the need for intercomparisons of classifications, and the progress towards an optimum, if possible unified, classification method. Among the recent tendencies in the applications of circulation classifications, we mention a more extensive use in climate studies, both of past, present, and future climates, innovative applications in the ensemble forecasting, increasing variety of synoptic-climatological investigations, and steps above from the troposphere. After introducing the international activity within the field of circulation classifications, the COST733 Action, we briefly describe outputs of the inventory of classifications in Europe, which was carried out within it. Approaches to the evaluation of classifications and their mutual comparisons are also reviewed. A considerable part of the review is devoted to three examples of applications of circulation classifications: in historical climatology, in analyses of recent climate variations, and analyses of outputs from global climate models.status: publishe