Temperature as an indicator of landform influence on atmospheric processes

Potential land surface-atmosphere interactions were observed on satellite imagery in the lower reaches of the alluvial valley of the Mississippi River. Monthly temperature data were used to determine if a measurable relationship between the land surface and resulting atmospheric processes can be similarly found in the long-term record throughout the entire year. Comparison of temperatures inside the valley with those outside the valley revealed that annual average minimum temperature in the valley is warmer by VC than outside the valley. Analyses of seasonal temperature showed that average maximum temperature in the valley is warmer by 0.5 degrees C in summer and colder by 0.5 degrees C in winter. Average minimum temperature in the valley is consistently over 1 degrees C warmer in all seasons. Monthly temperature analyses showed that average maximum temperature in the valley is colder from November-March and warmer from May-October, while average minimum temperature is consistently warmer in the valley in all months. Average temperature range in the valley is consistently smaller than outside the valley. Statistically significant results indicate that days are hotter in summer and colder in winter, and that nights are warmer all year in the valley. Soil type differences and consequently differing soil moisture regimes are suggested as possible causal mechanisms.