Metric-Aware Analysis of Pressure–Gradient and Wind Coupling

Version 5 – Interpretation Refinement This version refines the interpretation of the relationship between directional alignment and forcing magnitude in atmospheric forcing–response coupling. The previous version suggested that seasonal variability is governed more by directional alignment than by forcing magnitude. Further analysis shows that this interpretation was overly strong. Overall correlation analysis indicates that directional alignment (r = 0.526) and forcing magnitude (r = 0.565) exhibit comparable associations with the response, while wind response shows the strongest correlation (r = 0.618). In this updated version, seasonal variability is interpreted as arising from the interplay between directional alignment and forcing magnitude, rather than clear dominance of either factor. Regime-resolved analysis indicates that the contributions of alignment and magnitude vary across seasons. Additional analysis, including regime-resolved diagnostics and residual-based evaluation, supports a view of the system as a weakly coupled structure. This update does not modify the underlying data or methodology, but provides a more balanced and physically consistent interpretation of the results. Note: The abstract in the original paper.md file reflects an earlier interpretation (Version 4). The updated interpretation provided here offers a refined perspective and should be considered the current description of the results.