Editorial Type:
Article
Article Type:
Research Article

Classification of Regional Climate Variability in the State of California

John T. Abatzoglou Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Western Regional Climate Center, Desert Research Institute, Reno, Nevada

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Kelly T. Redmond Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Western Regional Climate Center, Desert Research Institute, Reno, Nevada

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Laura M. Edwards Division of Atmospheric Sciences, Western Regional Climate Center, Desert Research Institute, Reno, Nevada

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Print Publication:
01 Aug 2009
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1175/2009JAMC2062.1
Page(s):
1527–1541
Restricted access

Abstract

A novel approach is presented to objectively identify regional patterns of climate variability within the state of California using principal component analysis on monthly precipitation and temperature data from a network of 195 climate stations statewide and an ancillary gridded database. The confluence of large-scale circulation patterns and the complex geography of the state result in 11 regional modes of climate variability within the state. A comparison between the station and gridded analyses reveals that finescale spatial resolution is needed to adequately capture regional modes in complex orographic and coastal settings. Objectively identified regions can be employed not only in tracking regional climate signatures, but also in improving the understanding of mechanisms behind regional climate variability and climate change. The analysis has been incorporated into an operational tool called the California Climate Tracker.

Corresponding author address: Dr. John T. Abatzoglou, Division of Atmospheric Sciences, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV 89512-1095. Email: john.abatzoglou@dri.edu

Abstract

A novel approach is presented to objectively identify regional patterns of climate variability within the state of California using principal component analysis on monthly precipitation and temperature data from a network of 195 climate stations statewide and an ancillary gridded database. The confluence of large-scale circulation patterns and the complex geography of the state result in 11 regional modes of climate variability within the state. A comparison between the station and gridded analyses reveals that finescale spatial resolution is needed to adequately capture regional modes in complex orographic and coastal settings. Objectively identified regions can be employed not only in tracking regional climate signatures, but also in improving the understanding of mechanisms behind regional climate variability and climate change. The analysis has been incorporated into an operational tool called the California Climate Tracker.

Corresponding author address: Dr. John T. Abatzoglou, Division of Atmospheric Sciences, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV 89512-1095. Email: john.abatzoglou@dri.edu

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