Effects of MJO Vertically Tilted Structure on Its Phase Speed from the Moisture Mode Theory Perspective

The effect of vertically tilted structure (VTS) of the MJO on its phase propagation speed was investigated through the diagnosis of ERA-Interim reanalysis data during 1979-2012. A total of 84 eastward propagating MJO events were selected. It was found that all MJO events averaged throughout their life cycles exhibited a clear VTS, and the tilting strength was significantly positively correlated to the phase speed. The physical mechanism through which the VTS influenced the phase speed was investigated. On the one hand, a stronger VTS led to a stronger vertical overturning circulation and a stronger descent in the front, which caused a greater positive moist static energy (MSE) tendency in situ through enhanced vertical MSE advection. The stronger MSE tendency gradient led to a faster eastward phase speed. On the other hand, the enhanced overturning circulation in front of MJO convection led to a stronger easterly/low pressure anomaly at the top of the boundary layer, which induced a stronger boundary layer convergence and stronger ascent in the lower troposphere. This strengthened the boundary layer moisture asymmetry and favored a faster eastward propagation speed.

Automated summary

The vertically tilted structure (VTS) of the MJO has a significant impact on its phase propagation speed, with a stronger VTS leading to faster phase speed. The physical mechanism behind this influence involves stronger vertical overturning circulation, descent in the front, enhanced vertical MSE advection, and stronger boundary layer convergence, all contributing to a faster eastward propagation speed.