Atmospheric modeling of Desert Dust Aerosols Effects on Clouds over the Atlantic Ocean

Abstract

This work aims to study the microphysical and radiative effects of the desert dust aerosols, on cloud properties, during strong desert dust transports. This is done by examining the results obtained from a mesoscale atmospheric model (MesoNH), over Portugal and nearby Atlantic Ocean. The results obtained provide information on the cloud properties, and possible modifications that clouds may undergo, when they develop in an atmosphere where desert dust aerosols are present. The cloud radiative forcing (CRF) at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) is also estimated.