Simulations of subtropical cyclones in a baroclinic channel model

This modified zonal flow supports moist baroclinic instability. The resulting cyclones, identified as subtropical cyclones, occur in deep westerly vertical wind shear but are nearly devoid of lower-tropospheric baroclinicity initially. These systems are distinguished from baroclinically dominated secondary cyclones that also form at relatively low latitudes in the simulations.

For weak jets and strong subtropical surface easterlies, subtropical cyclone development dominates development on the midlatitude jet. For strong westerly jets or weak horizontal shear, the situation is reversed and the midlatitude baroclinic wave can help or hinder the ultimate intensification of the subtropical cyclone. The similarity of this cross-latitude influence to the extratropical transition of tropical cyclones is noted.