Mini-Sodar Observations of Drainage Flows in the Rocky Mountains

Abstract

Vertical profiles of drainage winds were monitored continuously by a Doppler-Mini-Sodar during case studies in two valleys, on both sides of the U. S. Continental Divide. A tethered balloon provided additional information on the vertical temperature and wind structure up to the Divide level. Ambient wind data were collected by a radar wind profiler on the west side, and a tower on the crest of the Divide. The onset, evolution and breakup of the drainage flow were studied on two nights, when the ridge-top winds were westerly and skies were clear. To study the influence of the ambient flow on drainage winds, changes in drainage wind speed, direction and depth, along with the volume flux were examined. It was found that, on the leeward side, the drainage was strongly influenced by the ambient winds (King, 1995b), which led to interruption and erosion of the locally generated valley flow. The drainage on the windward side of the Divide was almost undisturbed. A comparison of balloon and sodar wind profiles showed very good agreement during steady drainage conditions.