A comparison of cloud classification methodologies: Differences between cloud and dynamical regimes

Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres (2018)

We compare Cloud Regimes (CRs) and Dynamic Regimes (DRs) classifications to understand the relative merits of these approaches and develop a comparison methodology for future studies.

We apply the Self‐Organizing Map technique to International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) D1 joint histograms to produce a CR and ERA‐Interim pressure vertical velocity output to produce a DR.

Composite mean CloudSat reflectivity‐altitude joint histograms represent all major cloud types in the CR scheme, while the current DR grouping is less coherent and misses classes, suggesting the CR scheme provides a more meaningful classification. However, classification methodologies that can incorporate both methods will have additional value.