Numerical Simulation of Convective Clouds and Boundaries

University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL

Investigators

Abstract

Numerical simulations employing the COMMAS and MM5 models are employed for investigating convective phenomena in the atmosphere, with special emphasis on phenomena with internally or externally generated boundaries. The research includes the following topics: (1) convective initiation along drylines; (2) the importance of fronts, outflow boundaries, cloud boundaries, and the low-level jet in the Chicago flood of July 17-18, 1996; (3) dynamics and thermodynamics of storm interactions with low-level boundaries; (4) the tornado outbreak of April 19, 1996, in Illinois and adjacent states. Results of these studies provide fundamental insight on atmospheric circulation systems and guidance for forecasting severe weather events.