The role of large-scale feedbacks in cumulus convection parameter estimation

Without addressing the large-scale feedback, the calibrated parameter values within a convection scheme are usually not optimal for a climate model. This study first designs a multiple-column atmospheric model that includes large-scale feedbacks for cumulus convection and then explores the role of large-scale feedbacks in cumulus convection parameter estimation using an ensemble filter.

The performance of convection parameter estimation with or without the presence of large-scale feedback is examined. It is found that including large-scale feedbacks in cumulus convection parameter estimation can significantly improve the estimation quality. This is because large-scale feedbacks help transform local convection uncertainties into global climate sensitivities, and including these feedbacks enhances the statistical representation of the relationship between parameters and state variables.