Annual Cycle and Interannual Variability of Tropical Cyclone Genesis Frequency in the CMIP5 Climate Models: Use of Genesis Potential Index

The potential for tropical cyclogenesis in a given oceanic and atmospheric environments can be represented by genesis potential index (GPI). Using the 18 Coupled Model Inter Comparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) models, the annual cycle of GPI and interannual variability of GPI are analyzed in this study. In comparison, the annual cycle of GPI calculated from reanalysis data is revisited. In particular, GPI differences between CMIP5 models and reanalysis data are compared, and the possible reasons for the GPI differences are discussed. ENSO (El Nino and Southern Oscillation) has a tropical phenomenon, which affects tropical cyclone genesis and its passages. Some dynamical interpretations of tropical cyclogenesis are suggested by using the fact that GPI is a function of four large-scale parameters. The GPI anomalies in El Nino or La Nina years are discussed and the most contributable factors are identified in this study. In addition, possible dynamics of tropical cyclogenesis in the Northern Hemisphere Pacific region are discussed using the large-scale factors.