Abstract
Variability in poleward atmosphere‐ocean heat transport has been suggested as one driver of climate change on long timescales. The radiative impact of clouds, particularly extratropical clouds, is an important factor in determining the equilibrium value of this heat transport in the current climate. Therefore, significant changes in cloudiness and cloud radiative forcing could potentially force equally significant adjustments in total poleward heat transport, and thus in atmospheric and/or oceanic dynamics. At the same time, these extratropical clouds and their strong radiative impact are largely the result of the atmospheric eddies that make up the storm tracks. Coincidentally, these storm track eddies also accomplish most of the extratropical poleward heat transport. At high latitudes, the annual‐mean radiative cooling of these clouds is shown here to be of the same order as the atmospheric eddy heat transport convergence, and of opposite sign. Some potential implications of these points for climate change studies are discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
