Open AccessImplementation of Noah land surface model advances in the National Centers for Environmental Prediction operational mesoscale Eta model
Author(s) -
Ek M. B.,
Mitchell K. E.,
Lin Y.,
Rogers E.,
Grunmann P.,
Koren V.,
Gayno G.,
Tarpley J. D.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
journal of geophysical research: atmospheres
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.67
H-Index - 298
eISSN - 2156-2202
pISSN - 0148-0227
DOI - 10.1029/2002jd003296
Subject(s) - mesoscale meteorology , environmental science , meteorology , precipitation , climatology , climate model , atmospheric sciences , relative humidity , boundary layer , climate change , aerospace engineering , geography , physics , geology , engineering , oceanography
We present the impact tests that preceded the most recent operational upgrades to the land surface model used in the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) mesoscale Eta model, whose operational domain includes North America. These improvements consist of changes to the “Noah” land surface model (LSM) physics, most notable in the area of cold season processes. Results indicate improved performance in forecasting low‐level temperature and humidity, with improvements to (or without affecting) the overall performance of the Eta model quantitative precipitation scores and upper air verification statistics. Remaining issues that directly affect the Noah LSM performance in the Eta model include physical parameterizations of radiation and clouds, which affect the amount of available energy at the surface, and stable boundary layer and surface layer processes, which affect surface turbulent heat fluxes and ultimately the surface energy budget.