The 13–14 December 2001 IMPROVE-2 Event. Part I: Synoptic and Mesoscale Evolution and Comparison with a Mesoscale Model Simulation

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes the large-scale synoptic and mesoscale features of a major precipitation event that affected the second Improvement of Microphysical Parameterization through Observational Verification Experiment (IMPROVE-2) study area on 13–14 December 2001. The fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5) was used to simulate both the synoptic and mesoscale features of the storm. Extensive model verification was performed utilizing the wealth of observational assets available during the experiment, including in situ aircraft measurements, radiosondes, radar data, and surface observations. The 13–14 December 2001 storm system was characterized by strong low-level cross-barrier flow, heavy precipitation, and the passage of an intense baroclinic zone. The model realistically simulated the three-dimensional thermodynamic and kinematic fields, the forward-tilted vertical structure of the baroclinic zone, and the associated major precipitation band. Deficiencies in the model simulations included an attenuated low-level jet accompanying the middle-level baroclinic zone and the lack of precipitation associated with the surface front; NOAA P-3 aircraft in situ data indicated that the model required 1.33-km grid spacing to capture realistically the complex mesoscale forcing related to terrain features. Despite the relatively skillful portrayal of mesoscale and synoptic structures, the model overpredicted precipitation in localized areas on the windward slopes and over a broad area to the lee of the Oregon Cascades.