The regional influence of the Arctic Oscillation and Arctic Dipole on the wintertime Arctic surface radiation budget and sea ice growth

Abstract

Abstract An analysis of 2000–2015 monthly Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System‐Energy Balanced and Filled (CERES‐EBAF) and Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, Version 2 (MERRA2) data reveals statistically significant fall and wintertime relationships between Arctic surface longwave (LW) radiative flux anomalies and the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and Arctic Dipole (AD). Signifying a substantial regional imprint, a negative AD index corresponds with positive downwelling clear‐sky LW flux anomalies (>10 W m −2 ) north of western Eurasia (0°E–120°E) and reduced sea ice growth in the Barents and Kara Seas in November–February. Conversely, a positive AO index coincides with negative clear‐sky LW flux anomalies and minimal sea ice growth change in October–November across the Arctic. Increased (decreased) atmospheric temperature and water vapor coincide with the largest positive (negative) clear‐sky flux anomalies. Positive surface LW cloud radiative effect anomalies also accompany the negative AD index in December–February. The results highlight a potential pathway by which Arctic atmospheric variability influences the regional surface radiation budget over areas of Arctic sea ice growth.