Clouds, precipitation, and the global heat and moisture budgets during SOP-1, FGGE

Two sets of precipitation estimates are derived using the budget method equations: one is based on the apparent heat source or Q1-budget technique, the other is based on the apparent moisture sink or Q2-budget technique. Both techniques and application results are presented for the period of January 10 to February 13, 1979 which was part of SOP-1, FGGE. Maps of time-averaged outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) are shown for two periods running from January 10 to January 24, 1979 and from January 26 to February 7, 1979. The present study of estimating precipitation was initiated because of agreement between OLR and circulation patterns, and the noted regional differences and similarities in deep convections between these two periods.