A seasonal analysis of aerosol-cloud-radiation interaction over Indian region during 2000–2017.

Abstract The present study uses 18 years (March 2000–May 2017) of satellite–derived relevant parameters to examine the impact of aerosols on cloud properties, radiative fluxes and ACI (aerosol-cloud interaction) over Indian region. The study includes consideration of shortwave cloud radiative forcing (SWCRF), longwave cloud radiative forcing (LWCRF) and net cloud radiative forcing (NetCRF) from CERES (Clouds and Earth's Radiant Energy System). Also, aerosol optical depth (AOD) and cloud properties such as ice/liquid CER (Cloud Effective Radius), CF (Cloud Fraction), COD (Cloud Optical Depth), CTP (Cloud Top Pressure) and ice/liquid CWP (Cloud Water Path; i.e., ICWP and LCWP) are also considered. Moderate to high aerosol loading and the significant increasing trend of AOD is observed over several parts of Indian region depending upon the seasons. CF is found to be moderate to higher during monsoon months with increasing trend over several parts of the country. Optically thicker high-level clouds have low SWCRF value; whereas, middle-level and low-level clouds have low to moderate SWCRF value. In the majority of cases, Twomey effect is observed whereas in some scenarios Anti-Twomey effect is seen. Highlights • Increasing trend of AOD is seen over most parts of India during all the seasons. • Optically thicker low and middle clouds have low to moderate SWCRF value. • Twomey effect seen in most of the scenarios whereas others show Anti-Twomey effect. • Positive ACI indicates substantial moisture availability and stronger interaction. • Negative ACI in some instances signify less water vapour presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]