A numerical scheme for tracking cyclone centres from digital data. Part II: application to January and July general circulation model simulations

Abstract

An objective scheme (described in Part I) has been used to study the distribution and movement of southern hemisphere extratropical cyclones generated by a general circulation model for January and July. The model cyclones reproduced a number of the important features of cyclone behaviour reported from earlier observational studies. Systems moved in the expected east-southeast direction, with maximum speeds in mid-latitudes. The circumpolar trough and the major Antarctic embayments were found to be regions of maximum cyclone density and of net dissipation. Contrary to earlier findings they were also found to be regions of active local cyclogenesis. The model results appear to correspond rath..