Orographic Controls over Convection in an Inter-Andean Valley in Northern South America

Abstract

Abstract Convective processes are critical in the northernmost section of the Andes, where highly complex orography combines with tropical dynamics to produce intense precipitating systems. Data from satellite and ground radar have shown that Colombia’s central Magdalena valley has a marked precipitation diurnal cycle, with high rainfall rates produced by deep convective events that intensify on the foothills of the surrounding valley. This study aims to contribute to the understanding of the orographic controls imposed on the convective activity observed in this important tropical valley. The atmospheric environments associated with convective events are assessed using WRF high-resolution simulations for a two-week period that includes intense rainfall events and marked dry spells. In addition, a simulation with modified orography is evaluated to analyze further the effect of topography in controlling the observed convective systems. The results suggest that northward and southward wind regimes channeled by the valley’s topography and cross-valley flow result in a robust nocturnal convergence zone, which is associated with the strong diurnal cycle and the valley configuration. Furthermore, northerly low-level flow is an important source of moisture for convection in the valley. Additionally, results show midlevel tropospheric heating enhancement during days with more rainfall produced by convective systems in the western slope of the valley. The modified topography simulation suggests that circulation and precipitation in the valley are strongly dependent on the actual terrain features.