Comparison of Two Windstorm Events During the Sierra Rotors Project and Terrain-Induced Rotor Experiment
Abstract
The main objective of the recent Terrain-induced Rotor Experiment (T-REX) was to perform a comprehensive study of the coupled mountain-wave/ rotor/boundary-layer system. In addition to this scientific objective, the data sets and findings of T-REX are expected to result in improvements in mesoscale and microscale modeling and the prediction of aviation hazards, aerosol transport and dispersion, and downslope windstorms. Since the ultimate goal is an improvement in forecasting, we will utilize the National Weather Service criteria for a high wind warning. In the region of interest, this is sustained winds greater or equal to 40 mph for at least 2 hours or any gust greater or equal to 58 mph below 5,000' ASL. During the four months of field observations, there were a total of eight events in which wind gusts of this magnitude were recorded. In six of these eight events, the highest wind gusts were from a westerly (downslope) direction. In addition to the observations collected during the events, we will also use high-resolution numerical simulations to isolate the physical mechanisms responsible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA527823
Entities
People
- Brian J. Billings
- James D. Doyle
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory