Evolution of Multiscale Vortices in the Development of Hurricane Dolly (2008)

Abstract As a follow-up to a previously published article on the initial development and genesis of Hurricane Dolly (2008), this study further examines the evolution of, and interactions among, multiscale vortices ranging from the system-scale main vortex (L > 150 km) to the intermediate-scale cloud clusters (50 km < L < 150 km) and individual vorticity-rich convective cells (L < 50 km). It is found that there are apparent self-similarities among these vortices at different scales, each of which may undergo several cycles of alternating accumulation and release of convective available potential energy. Enhanced surface fluxes below individual cyclonic vortices at each scale contribute to the sustainment and reinvigoration of moist convection that in turn contributes to the maintenance and upscale growth of these vortices. Spectral analysis of horizontal divergence and relative vorticity further suggests that the cloud-cluster-scale and system-scale vortices are predominantly balanced while the individual ...

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