Date of Award
5-2026
Language
English
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Department
Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences
Advisor/Committee Chair
Kristen Corbosiero, Ph.D
Committee Member
Brian Tang, Ph.D
Abstract
Forecasting tropical cyclone (TC) intensification remains challenging due to the complex kinematic and thermodynamic processes that control storm evolution. This study examines the structural and environmental changes associated with the intensification of Hurricane Edouard (2014) by analyzing multiple observational datasets during its development. The analysis is divided into four categories: (1) environmental moistening, evaluated using dropsonde and aircraft flight-level data; (2) vortex structure, examining changes in the storm’s circulation and organization; (3) convective structure, assessed through radar and satellite observations; and (4) lightning bursts, using lightning detection data in the storm’s outer and inner rainbands. By comparing the timing of these processes, this study aims to determine whether the alignment of these factors corresponds with the intensification of Hurricane Edouard.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Elizabeth, "Environmental and Structural Drivers of Hurricane Edouard (2014) Intensification" (2026). Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences Honors Program. 2.
https://scholarsarchive.library.albany.edu/cas-daes-honors/2