A parametrization of 3‐D subgrid‐scale clouds for conventional GCMs: Assessment using A‐Train satellite data and solar radiative transfer characteristics

ABSTRACT A stochastic algorithm for generating 3‐D cloud fields based on profiles of cloud fraction and mean cloud water content is presented and assessed using cloud properties inferred from A‐Train satellite data. The ultimate intention is to employ the algorithm, along with 3‐D radiative transfer (RT) models, in Global Climate Models (GCMs). The algorithm approaches cloud fields as whole objects demarcated by contiguous layers with . This …