Observation of aerosol impacts on convection associated with TC genesis during NAMMA-06 field campaign

During the summer of 2006, the NAMMA field campaign investigated interactions of African Easterly Waves, Saharan dust outbreaks, and interactions between the Saharan Air Layer and developing tropical cyclones. Several studies have indicated that aerosols can influence TC genesis by changing the characteristics of associated convection. The purpose of this study is to present satellite-based, aircraft, and surface-based observations of several systems investigated during NAMMA detailing the differences in convective structure and intensity associated with TC genesis. Preliminary results suggest more intense convection associated with dust outbreaks than in cleaner environments.