Extratropical Synoptic-Scale Processes and Severe Convection

Abstract

Within this chapter, we intend to give a broad perspective on the interaction between severe convection and extratropical synoptic-scale processes. A traditional view of this interaction is that the synoptic-scale processes simply provide a setting in which severe convection develops (see, e.g., Newton 1963; Barnes and Newton 1983; Johns and Doswell 1992). This view could be interpreted as implying that convection has little or no direct impact on synoptic scales. However, there have been many recent developments in mesoscale meteorology as it relates to severe convection (as described in chapter 3 of this volume), wherein upscale effects of convection are seen most clearly. Mesoscale processes often act as a sort of intermediary between convective and synoptic scales. We take the view that, in spite of the intermediation by mesoscale processes, it is still possible to take a synoptic-scale view of the impacts of deep, moist convection, especially in its most severe manifestations.