Get started
Work

Unifying the QBO, MJO Shallow‐to‐Deep Convection Transitions, and Mesoscale Convective Systems

Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) convective structures to better understand how the Quasi‐biennial Oscillation (QBO) impacts MJO propagation. We find that during the QBO easterly (QBOE) phase, MJO events exhibit convective features that are highly favorable for propagation. These features include greater low‐level moisture and stronger shallow convection within the leading suppressed phase, which effectively transitions into deep convection days later. Additionally, mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) west of the Maritime Continent (MC) are enhanced at the same locations during the QBOE phase. Further diagnostics reveal critical connections between the enhanced MCSs, intensified leading shallow convection, and the subsequent, stronger MJO convection, facilitating smoother MJO propagation across the MC in the QBOE phase. This study provides a new understanding of the observed QBO–MJO connection.
DOI: 10.1029/2025gl119452
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,190
Funders: National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Awards: Department of Energy (DoE) Support of the National Center for Atmospheric Research Activities, G1143651532, G1279347439, G138090931, G1429959982, The Management and Operation of the National Center for Atmoshperic Research (NCAR), G6208769229
OpenAlex ID: W7171499202
FWCI:
Cites: 50
Cited by:
Related to: