Abstract
Meteorological characteristics of flash floods and heavy precipitation events over the western United States are often considerably different than those associated with flash floods in the east. Data were compiled and studied for 61 western United States flash flood events and attendant meteorological conditions were documented. The events were classified by similar 500 mb flow regimes and four characteristic patterns were associated with the flash flood events. Synoptic storms occurred in conjunction with both an intense cyclonic surface system and a strong 500 mb trough. The remaining flash floods (49 events) were associated with weak and slow moving 500 mb short-wave troughs. It is shown that the National Meteorological Center's broadscale analyses (surface and standard level charts) are not sufficient for monitoring the subtle features that often interact to produce flash floods. The field forecaster must enhance, or reanalyze, these facsimile charts if he is to identify regions of developing flash flood potential. Distinct geographical. seasonal and diurnal characteristics were noted for the four basic types of western flash floods and mean values of important meteorological parameters were computed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
