Abstract
A new methodology is applied to ERA40 reanalysis in order to quantify large‐scale inertia‐gravity wave activity in the equatorial lower stratosphere. Both eastward and westward propagating waves are identified in the data set and a good agreement is found with previously published in situ observations. Global estimates of vertical fluxes of zonal momentum associated with such waves are obtained. Typical amplitudes of order 10−2 m2. s−2 suggest that the forcing of the Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation by large‐scale inertia‐gravity waves is tantamount to that by Kelvin waves. This method can be used to document the space‐time variability of the wave‐activity in order to improve the wave‐drag parameterizations in climate models.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
