A Comparison between a Steady-State Downdraft Model and Observations Behind Squall Lines

B. F. Ryan Division of Cloud Physics, CSIRO, Sydney, Australia

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J. C. Carstens Division of Cloud Physics, CSIRO, Sydney, Australia

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Abstract

A simple parcel model has been used to examine the possibility that observed profiles of θe following the passage of a squall line are produced by air originating in middle-level clouds and descending in steady rain. The model predicts realistic profiles of θ and q.

The calculations suggest that in meteorological situations such as squall lines the thermodynamic properties of air associated with evaporating downdrafts can be parameterized by this simple model.

Abstract

A simple parcel model has been used to examine the possibility that observed profiles of θe following the passage of a squall line are produced by air originating in middle-level clouds and descending in steady rain. The model predicts realistic profiles of θ and q.

The calculations suggest that in meteorological situations such as squall lines the thermodynamic properties of air associated with evaporating downdrafts can be parameterized by this simple model.

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