Impact of air–sea coupling on the climate change signal over the Iberian Peninsula

Abstract In this work we use a regional atmosphere–ocean coupled model (RAOCM) and its stand-alone atmospheric component to gain insight into the impact of coupling on climate change signal over Iberian Peninsula (IP). The IP is influenced by both Atlantic Ocean Mediterranean sea. Complex interactions with orography take place there high-resolution models are required realistically reproduce current future climate. We find that under RCP8.5 scenario, generalized 2-m air temperature (T2M) increase end twenty-first century (2070–2099) in atmospheric-only simulation tempered coupling. specially seen summer, when warming stronger. Precipitation shows regionally-dependent changes winter, whilst drier found summer. generally reduces magnitude changes. Differences T2M precipitation between uncoupled simulations caused large-scale circulation Sea. Additionally, differences projected RAOCM RCP4.5 scenarios tackled. Results show winter summer increases less smaller RCP4.5. Whilst present similar distribution runs, some NW due North circulation. from driving Global Coupled Model regionalization has an effect terms higher resolution land ocean.