Comment on acp-2020-1198

Abstract

Using multi-satellite and re-analysis data, this study presents the role of aerosols in the early onset of wet season over the Congo rainforest. The increase in aerosol optical depth during the dry season results in surface cooling and enhanced meridional temperature gradient, which influences the AEJ-S and thus precipitation. Because of the inherent limitations of observational datasets, the Authors could not demonstrate aerosol-induced surface cooling as the major pathway for the early onset of the wet season. Results are not convincing and mostly speculative in nature. Moreover, authors should use long-term data (not just 3 years each for late and early onset conditions) to establish the link between aerosols and AEJ-S. It is not clear whether high aerosol loading during the dry season is a forcing mechanism or a prior indicator (proxy) for the early onset of the wet season and strengthening of AEJ-S. In the case of the former, authors should strengthen the study using more supporting evidence (probably some modelling attempts). Substantial revision is required before accepting this manuscript for publication in ACP. Major issues are: