Cloud microphysical characterization in the presence of a Desert Dust event over Portugal: A study based on atmospheric modeling and satellite remote sensing

forcing during a strong desert dust transport that occurred in 27, 28 and 29 May 2006. This is done by examining the results obtained from a mesoscale atmospheric model (MesoNH), over Portugal area and nearby Atlantic Ocean. The assessment of the aerosol properties provides information on the altitude of the aerosol layers and the determination of the cloud properties, influenced by the presence of desert dust aerosol, gives the information about the possible modifications that the cloud may suffer when they develop in an atmosphere where desert dust aerosols are present. The cloud radiative forcing (CRF) at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) is also estimated. The CRF at the TOA, in a dust free atmosphere, present lower values when compared with the TOA CRF over the regions where dust aerosols are present