Understanding volcanogenic gravity waves by synergistic use of modeling and observations

• Applicants: Dr. Akos Horvath; Dr. Gholamali Hoshyaripour
• Subject Area: Atmospheric Science
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 572704081

Gravity waves (GWs) are fundamental to atmospheric dynamics by facilitating momentum and energy transport from the troposphere to the upper atmosphere. Among the diverse sources of GWs such as orography and deep-convection, explosive volcanic eruptions produce GWs through the rapid release of thermal energy, ash, and gases. This project aims to advance the understanding of volcanogenic GWs and their relation to eruption source parameters (ESPs) such as the amount of emitted ash and water vapor, exit temperature, or exit velocity, as well as deriving the effects of volcanogenic GWs on weather and regional circulation by synergistic use of modeling and observation. With high-resolution numerical simulations with the ICOsahedral Nonhydrostatic model with Aerosols and Reactive Tracers (ICON-ART) and multi-platform satellite infrared imagery, we will investigate which ESPs most strongly influence the generation and characteristics of volcanogenic GWs. A comparison of observed and modeled volcanogenic GW parameters, such as wavelength, phase speed, period, and amplitude, can potentially lead to the development of empirical relationships that allow the estimation of ESPs from satellite-observed GW properties. Therefore, we will investigate various eruption types, including ash-rich, water-rich, tropical, and subtropical eruptions. Furthermore, we will quantify the energy and momentum fluxes associated with volcanic GWs from ICON-ART simulations and compare them to those generated by deep convective systems, as reported in the literature. This comparative analysis will provide critical insights into the relative importance of volcanic versus convective GW sources in shaping regional circulation and influencing weather patterns. The outcomes of this research will provide more accurate ESPs for recent volcanic eruption, which are relevant for modeling volcanic impacts on weather and climate. Furthermore, the project will contribute to a deeper understanding of GW effects on the atmosphere.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: USA
• Co-Investigators: Professor Dr. Ulrich Achatz; Dr. Julia Bruckert; Professorin Dr. Mirjana Sakradzija; Professorin Dr. Claudia Christine Stephan
• Cooperation Partner: Dr. Sharon Vadas