Turbulent Transport and Surface Interactions Within Inhomogeneous Atmospheric Environments: An Evaluation of Parameterization Schemes in the Weather Research and Forecasting Model
Dec 15, 2008·
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Jeremy A. Gibbs
Abstract
The WRF model is a popular tool, both in research and operational meteorology, offering a practical method to model atmospheric quantities at fine grid spacing.However, proper consideration is often not given to the underlying physics of the model, particularly in terms of turbulent transport and surface interactions (TTSI). The use of these schemes requires greater inspection because the parameterization ofTTSI sub-grid scale processes becomes increasingly important when employing fine grid spacing within the model. The comparison domain utilized in the WRF model for this study was centered over the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program site located in Lamont, Oklahoma.
Two cases from June 2007 were chosen based on their meteorological representativeness of late spring conditions in Oklahoma. The Dryline case of June 7th included strong warming, wind shifts, and moisture changes due to the passage of a dryline. The Postfrontal case of June 8th was preceded by the passage of a cold front in the overnight hours and included the associated cooler temperatures, northerly winds, and stronger static stability.
Sensitivity of model predictions was investigated by employing different and sensible configurations of TTSI schemes. Additionally, the model representation of TTSI sub-grid scale processes was examined by studying the comparability of WRF model predictions with observational and fine-scale numerical simulation data. Finally, recommendations are offered on the use of TTSI parameterization schemes in the WRF model under particular meteorological conditions.
Two cases from June 2007 were chosen based on their meteorological representativeness of late spring conditions in Oklahoma. The Dryline case of June 7th included strong warming, wind shifts, and moisture changes due to the passage of a dryline. The Postfrontal case of June 8th was preceded by the passage of a cold front in the overnight hours and included the associated cooler temperatures, northerly winds, and stronger static stability.
Sensitivity of model predictions was investigated by employing different and sensible configurations of TTSI schemes. Additionally, the model representation of TTSI sub-grid scale processes was examined by studying the comparability of WRF model predictions with observational and fine-scale numerical simulation data. Finally, recommendations are offered on the use of TTSI parameterization schemes in the WRF model under particular meteorological conditions.
Type
Publication
University of Oklahoma, 134 pp.
