On the Interplay between Desert Dust and Meteorology Based on WRF-Chem Simulations and Remote Sensing Observations in the Mediterranean Basin

In this study, we investigate a series of Saharan dust outbreaks toward the Mediterranean basin that occurred in late June 2021. particular, analyze effect mineral aerosols on radiation and cloud properties (direct, semi-direct indirect effects), turn, meteorological parameters. This is achieved by running Weather Research Forecasting model coupled with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) over domain covering North Africa Central Basin. The simulations were configured using gradual coupling strategy between GOCART aerosol Goddard microphysics schemes available WRF-Chem package. A preliminary evaluation performances was conducted order to verify its capability correctly reproduce amount loaded into atmosphere within spatial considered. To purpose, used suite experimental data from ground- space-based remote sensing measurements. comparison highlighted over-estimation optical 20%. desert impact budget, comparing uncoupled fully (aerosol–radiation–clouds) simulation, shows induces net (shortwave–longwave) cooling ?10 W m?2. If consider radiative forcing, presence particles small at top (?1.2 m?2) stronger surface (?14.2 m?2). At same time, analysis perturbation energy budget yields reduction ?7 m?2 when considering FULL-coupled positive +3 only ?10.4 coupling. last result indicates sort “superposition” direct, effects budget. study significantly influences specifically suggests (i) should be considered climate models increase accuracy predictions region (ii) necessity performing including their meteorology regional scale.