Characteristics of spatial and temporal distribution of lower layer cloud water resources in Xinjiang mountain regions

The multi-year spatial distribution and seasonal variations of c bud coverage and liquid water path of lower layer clouds over the Altay,Tianshan and Kunlun Mountain ranges in Xinjiang are analyzed by using the CERES(Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System) SSF (Single Satellite Footprint) Aqua MODIS cloud data product from 2003 to 2007.The results show that the averaged multi-year cloud coverage of the three mountain ranges are in the range of 24.4%-27.5%,and the averaged multi-year cloud liquid water path are between 51g/m²and 56.3g/m².Cloud coverage and liquid water path of lower layer clouds in the three mountainous regions exhibitlarge seasonal variations.Cloud coverage in spring and summer is larger than that in autumn and winter.Cloud coverage in spring is the most abundant,while the most abundant season for the cloud liquid water path is in winter for the three mountain regions.