The Role of Potential Vorticity Generation in Tropical Cyclone Rainbands

Abstract

The implied heating and potential vorticity generation in tropical cyclone rainbands is derived from observed vertical motion profiles. High levels of potential vorticity generation are found in the stratiform rain regions, sufficient to generate substantial wind maxima along the bands within a couple of hours. Such generation may represent a significant source of potential vorticity for the system as a whole and may have implications for cyclone intensity.