Remote sensing and analysis of tropical cyclones:Current and emerging satellite sensors

This article describes recent advances in the capability of new satellite sensors for observing Tropical Cyclones(TC)fine structure,wind field,and temporal evolution.The article is based on a World Meteorological Organization(WMO)report prepared for the 10th International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones(IWTC),held in Bali in December 2022,and its objective is to present updates in TC research and operation every four years.Here we focus on updates regarding the most recent space-based TC observations,and we cover new methodologies and techniques using polar orbiting sensors,such as C-band synthetic aperture radars(SARs),L-band and combined C/X-band radiometers,scatterometers,and microwave imagers/sounders.We additionally address progress made with the new generation of geostationary and small satellites,and discuss future sensors planned to be launched in the next years.We then briefly describe some examples on how the newest sensors are used in operations and data assimilation for TC forecasting and research,and conclude the article with a discussion on the remaining challenges of TC space-based observations and possible ways to address them in the near future.

Phase transitions between tropical,subtropical,and extratropical cyclones:A review from IWTC-10

This review,which was adapted from a Tenth International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones(IWTC-10)report,discusses research findings and operational practices relevant to cyclone types and phase transitions(extratropical,subtropical,and tropical).The cyclone phase space(CPS)method is widely used in both historical investigations and real-time evaluation of cyclone type and transition;however,CPS parameter values depend on input data resolution,and universal thresholds do not currently exist to delineate when a cyclone transitions from one type to another.Assessments of phase transitions in a changing climate highlight potential latitude shifts in extratropical transition and increased potential for tropical transition,but realistic projections of future trends likely require high-resolution simulations that can capture the cyclone warm core.Operational meteorological centers apply varied approaches to cyclone classification via CPS parameters and other criteria,some of which depend on the tropical basin,yet these approaches cannot fully address challenges in operational classification and subsequently in communicating risks associated with these phase transitions.We recommend a multivariate historical assessment of tropical and subtropical cyclones across all basins in which they occur,including the South Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea,to identify the potential for a more universal cyclone classification approach that meets operational needs.