Spatio-temporal characterization of the Orinoco low-level jet and its representation by CMIP5/CMIP6 models

Abstract

ABSTRACT : This study focuses on a low-level jet that develops in the Orinoco basin and plays a relevant role in atmospheric moisture transport to northern South America and the Amazon: the Orinoco low-level jet (OLLJ). We use information of the reanalysis ERA5 as the reference database, and data from General Circulation Models (GCMs) for both the historical and projected periods, in order to assess its changes under the influence of natural and human-induced effects. Understanding the OLLJ can enhance the existing knowledge around the mechanisms that modulate moisture transport in the atmosphere, therefore, regional patterns of precipitation and humidity in northern South America. Therefore, the main goal of the present study is to provide a general view of the main features of the OLLJ and the simulation of its main features by GCMs in the historical and projected periods, seeking to relate the activity of the jet with specific regional hydroclimatological processes, and the impacts that changes of the OLLJ could induce in the climate patterns over northern South America.