Performance of a High-Resolution Mesoscale Tropical Prediction Model

Abstract

This chapter examines the performance of a high-resolution mesoscale tropical prediction model. There are basically two types of mesoscale models, including quasistatic models and nonhydrostatic mesoscale models. The quasistatic models make use of horizontal resolutions of the order of 50 km or larger and can resolve mesoscale phenomena whose scale is of the order of a few hundred kilometers. The nonhydrostatic mesoscale models use a horizontal resolution of less than 5 km. The physical parametrizations of the model are largely based on the developments from global spectral model. These include shallow and deep moist convection, detailed calculation of radiative processes including cloud feedback processes, and a variable solar zenith angle. The surface fluxes are based on similarity theory and are coupled to the computation of surface hydrology and surface energy balance and they distinguish between the stable and unstable surface layers. The dynamical aspects of the regional model are also elaborated.