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Chen, Y. L., A. Q. Zhang, T. A. Liu, and W. B. Li, 2024: Diurnally propagating precipitation features caused by MCS activities during the pre-summer rainy season in South China. J. Meteor. Soc. Japan, 102.
https://doi.org/10.2151/jmsj.2024-019
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Graphical Abstract

Plain Language Summary: The properties of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) have huge impact on precipitation properties. Therefore, this study focused on the impact of MCS movement on precipitation characteristics during the pre-summer rainy season in South China. The results show that the directional movement of MCS do not only triggers the transmission of diurnal rainfall peaks, but also influences the ice-phased precipitation microphysics and precipitation intensity. We also suggest that the vertical structure of relative humidity, with moistest layer above boundary layer, plays a key role in MCS activities and thereby rainfall. We hope our results can contribute to the understanding and prediction of MCS-related precipitation over coastal regions.

Highlights:

• The directional propagation of MCS triggers the transmission of diurnal rainfall peaks during the pre-summer rainy season in South China.
• The propagation of MCS enhances ice-phased precipitation processes by spreading more droplets and therefore promotes near-surface rainfall.
• The vertically moistest layer above planetary boundary layer plays a key role in the initiation and development of MCS.