Stability of the sub-cloud layer during the summer monsoon

Abstract

Stability of the sub-cloud layer has been studied by examining the difference between the temperature of the lifting condensation level (LCL) and that of a meteorological sounding at the LCL. The difference in these temperatures was used as an indicator of the stability of the sub-cloud layer. When the temperature at LCL was warmer/cooler than its surroundings, it indicated the unstable/ adiabatic/stable conditions of the sub-cloud layer. It was observed that when conditions were unstable or adiabatic, there was less monsoon activity. Stable conditions were associated with active monsoon periods. The results are discussed with the enhancement/decrease of convective activity on days of weak/active monsoon conditions.