Open AccessCloud and Precipitation Parameterization in a Meso-Gamma-Scale Operational Weather Prediction Model
Author(s) -
Luc Gerard,
JeanMarcel Piriou,
Radmila Brožková,
Jean-François Geleyn,
Doina Banciu
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
monthly weather review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.862
H-Index - 179
eISSN - 1520-0493
pISSN - 0027-0644
DOI - 10.1175/2009mwr2750.1
Subject(s) - meteorology , numerical weather prediction , grid , precipitation , range (aeronautics) , environmental science , convection , scale (ratio) , north american mesoscale model , cloud computing , computer science , geology , global forecast system , aerospace engineering , physics , geography , geodesy , cartography , engineering , operating system
The paper assesses the difficulties of running an operational NWP model in the resolution range of 3–8 km. In this case, deep convection cells are neither much smaller than the grid box as assumed by most parameterization schemes, nor completely resolved as would be required for them to be treated explicitly. A specific approach is proposed, with an integrated sequential treatment of resolved condensation, deep convection, and microphysics together with the use of prognostic variables. It currently allows for the production of consistent and realistic results at resolutions ranging from a few tens of kilometers down to less than 4 km. Model skill scores and an example of an operational forecast at different resolutions are presented.