Simulation of surface radiation balance on the Tibetan Plateau

Tibetan Plateau is vulnerable to climate changes. At the same time, an altered surface radiation balance on the Plateau due to its rapid development would contribute to feedback and causes of global climate changes, particularly the Asian summer monsoon. In this study, we investigated surface radiation balance on the Tibetan Plateau by comparative analysis of two land surface models with the in-situ observation data. Our scrutiny reveals that radiative coupling, which has been neglected over low elevation region, is important in simulating surface energy balance on the Tibetan Plateau. For a proper assessment of surface radiation balance and hydrologic cycle on the Plateau, surface albedo and emissivity should be also correctly incorporated into land surface models and remote sensing algorithm.