Linkages between Amplified Quasi-Stationary Waves and Humid Heat Extremes in Northern Hemisphere Midlatitudes

Abstract

Abstract Humid heat extremes, taking account of both temperature and humidity, have adverse impacts on society, particularly on human health. It has been suggested that quasi-stationary waves (QSWs) with anomalously high amplitudes contribute to the occurrence of near-surface precipitation extremes and temperature extremes in the midlatitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. However, little attention has been paid to the linkages between amplified QSWs and humid heat extremes. Using the ERA5 dataset, we identify amplified QSWs of zonal wavenumbers 5–7 (Wave 5–7) in summer months from 1979 to 2020. These amplified QSWs show clear circumglobal wave patterns horizontally and nearly barotropic structure vertically. Linking amplified Wave 5–7 to wet-bulb temperature (WBT) extremes, we find that amplified QSWs preferentially induce prominently prolonged WBT extremes in specific regions: north-central North America for amplified Wave 5; western United States, south-central Asia, and eastern Asia for amplified Wave 6; and western Europe and the Caspian Sea region for amplified Wave 7. Analyses of physical processes indicate that, accompanied by the amplification of Wave 5–7, the changes in horizontal temperature advection, adiabatic heating associated with descending motion, downward solar radiation, moisture transport and moisture flux convergence, and surface latent heat fluxes largely account for the increase in persistence of WBT extremes. Significance Statement In the context of climate change, humid heat extremes exhibit different changes and impacts from high-temperature extremes, but the physical processes that may cause them remain unclear. This study aims to explore the atmospheric dynamic processes leading to the concurrence of humid heat extremes, which may exacerbate the risk from heat stress in today’s interconnected world. In specific regions over the Northern Hemisphere midlatitudes, durations of humid heat extremes are found to be elevated simultaneously by amplified quasi-stationary waves. We further identify the physical connections between amplified quasi-stationary waves and humid heat extremes over targeted regions. This would help in better understanding the role of changing atmospheric circulations in the humid heat extremes.