Abstract
Abstract A detailed analysis is made of a three-dimensional numerical simulation of the evolution of an observed moist frontal system over a 48 h period. The simulated front undergoes an initial period of frontogenetic growth, characterized by an alignment of vertical vorticity and horizontal convergence near the surface. The front then evolves to a mature, quasi-steady state as the line of maximum convergence moves ahead of the maximum vorticity. This phase shift is shown to be the result of a negative feedback mechanism which inhibits further vorticity growth while reducing the amount of viscous damping required to achieve a steady state. The influence of viscosity and surface drag upon this mechanism is also assessed. When moisture is included in the numerical solution, the squall line which develops along the front exhibits a dual updraft structure with low-level convergence near the nose of the front and midlevel convergence located 100 km to the rear at a height of 3 km. This configuration is very s...
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.
