22 June 2003 BAMEX observations of a convective line with parallel precipitation

The evolution of a linear mesoscale convective system (MCS) with attendant parallel stratiform precipitation (PS archetype) will be documented and its dynamics and structure will be discussed. On June 22, 2003, a linear MCS with PS characteristics traversed the Northern Plains, during which time it was sampled by the Bow Echo and MCV Experiment (BAMEX). The exceptional spatial and temporal resolution of the BAMEX data provides a unique opportunity to study the dynamics and structure of this poorly understood MCS mode. Using dropsondes, GLASS soundings, Mobile Integrated Profiling System (MIPS), and airborne radar data, the 3-Dimensional wind and thermodynamic fields will be analyzed and compared with simulations of PS MCSs. The results will also address possible pathways to improved forecasting and modeling of these recurring, non-traditional systems.