Upper troposphere circulation anomalies over Asia-Pacific region associated with the interannual variation of Indian summer monsoon

Abstract

Monthly mean vector wind and geopotential heights at 200 hPa of 67 radiosonde stations from Asia Pacific regions for the period 1963-1988 are used to examine the composite circulation anomaly patterns for the month of May and the monsoon season (June- September) with respect to good monsoon years and bad monsoon years (both associated with ENSO and not associated with ENSO). There are significant differences in the anomalous circulation features between good and bad monsoon years. During the month of May an anomalous anticyclonic (cyclonic) circulation over-central Asia and an anomalous cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation over Pacific ocean were observed during good (bad) monsoon years. These anomalies persist in the subsequent monsoon season. The key mechanisms of the development of these anomalous circulation patterns and their consequences are discussed.