Simulation of the dipole pattern of summer precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau by CMIP6 models

Abstract

The dipole pattern of summer precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) during 1961–2014 is evaluated based on observations and 18 models provided by the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6. Of the 18 models, 10 can capture the opposite variation characteristics in the south and north TP. Observational data reveals that the south–north seasaw of TP summer precipitation is essentially driven by a Rossby wave propagating from the Western Europe to East Asia, which is associated with North Atlantic oscillation (NAO). The models successfully simulated the dipole pattern that is closely related to the reproduction of the NAO–TP relationship. Further analysis demonstrates that the reliable simulations of horizontal dynamic processes of moisture transport, which is linked to the NAO–TP relationship, highly contributes to their success in reproducing the dipolar pattern of TP summer precipitation. While unrealistic local vertical circulation and evaporation simulation lead to the failed reproductions. These findings provide significant information for model development and future climate change projections.

Keywords

• summer precipitation
• Tibetan Plateau
• CMIP6
• North Atlantic oscillation
• moisture transport