Relationship between rainfall in Korea and Antarctic Oscillation in June

This study examined the effect of the Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) in June on the June rainfall in Korea by using a correlational statistical analysis. Results showed that there is a highly positive correlation between the two variables. In other words, the June rainfall in Korea is influenced by the Mascarene High and Australian High that are strengthened in the Southern Hemisphere, which is a typical positive AAO pattern. When these two anomalous pressure systems strengthen, the cold cross-equatorial flows in the direction from the region around Australia to the equator are intensified, which in turn, force a western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) to develop northward. This pressure development eventually drives the rain belt to head north. As a result, the Changma begins early in the positive AAO phase and the June rainfall increases in Korea. In addition, a WNPSH that develops more northward increases the landfall (or affecting) frequency of tropical cyclones in Korea, which plays an important role in increasing the June rainfall.