Sodar studied atmospheric temperature inversions of the Salt Lake Valley

Abstract

Inversional temperature phenomena indigenous to Utah's Salt Lake Valley were observed and studied over a continuous time span of 28 days occurring in December-January 1976–1977. The phenomena were combined with local topographical barriers to maintain a situation of marked atmospheric stability in the lowest kilometer. The nonturbulent conditions resulting were commonly neutral in character, but composite conditions retained generally stable patterns of inversion genesis and disintegration. Particular attention was given to comparing available rawinsonde raw data (soundings) with their coincidental sodar counterparts obtained from the continuous record. Results implied a compatibility between two techniques of sensing used, one being a remote sensor, the other in situ. Best agreement was discovered in the inversion cases below 500 m and with those of stronger intensities.