LAB #8 - WRF PREDICTION OF THE BOUNDARY LAYER AND VERIFICATION

Lab Objective:

In this lab, we will look at the boundary layer as simulated by WRF and compare to the observations and other models.  It will be determined whether or not the WRF model can simulate the different layers of the BL that we've discussed in this class.

Method:

1.  As a class, we need to pick a domain where really good boundary layer evolution should be observed.  The domain is shown below:

The model ran from 12/06/07 - 00 Z to 12/07/07 - 12 Z.  Data is available every one hour.

2.  Now proceed with analysis of the data with the following objectives in mind.

a.  Boundary Layer Evolution:

Pick a location within the above domain.  Document the boundary layer evolution from 12/6/07 - 00Z to 12/7/07 - 00Z.  In doing so, identify any layers that you observe in the WRF 5km model data.  Which layers are and are not produced in the model forecast.  Discuss your findings.

b.  Boundary Layer Model Comparison 

 Now, compare the following data sets for two different locations within the above domain at common times from 12/6/07 - 00Z to 12/7/07 - 00Z:

1. WRF5km (ETA 211)
2. NAM 40 km (ETA 212)
3. GFS 1.25 degrees (GFS thinned)
4. observed soundings

In making the comparisons, plot sounding pairs.  Discuss how the different model boundary layer structures compare with each other and observations.

last updated:  Monday, December 10, 2007