Front - Boundary Layer Processes
Abstract
Analysis and modeling of boundary layer influences on atmospheric cold fronts are carried out with data sets obtained from two field programs. These programs are the STorm scale Operational and Research Meteorology Fronts Experiment Systems Test (STORM-FEST), February-March 1992, and the MICROFRONTS experiment, March 1995. Particular emphasis is placed on the analysis of data to explore the role of the boundary layer on frontogenesis and on the development of turbulent bursts that characterize the stable nighttime boundary layer. These investigations are used to develop theoretical models which are able to isolate the principal physical processes that can explain the observations obtained. The MICROFRONTS data set contains high frequency data obtained by both one and two hot wire anemometers situated at the 3 meter level. These data are being analyzed to establish the relative importance of kinetic energy dissipation and turbulent transfers in events occurring in the planetary boundary layer. This work will be used to provide improvements to surface layer parameterizations of turbulent dissipation, which is poorly represented in mesoscale models, particularly under nonstationary conditions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA340247
Entities
People
- William Blumen
Organizations
- University of Colorado Boulder