Weather: Clouds & Precipitation

Clouds and precipitation are of critical importance for both weather and climate. While clouds are known to be a strong component of climate feedbacks, it is currently unknown whether the response of clouds will enhance or moderate warming of the atmosphere and oceans. An understanding of both the distribution and intensity of precipitation is crucial as the population and demand for water both increase.

Research at Climate & Space examines cloud processes on scales that range from tens of meters to thousands of kilometers. We examine cloud structure and dynamics, convection, cloud microphysics and cloud-aerosol interactions, as well as the response of both tropical and extratropical clouds and precipitation to a warming climate.