Improving WRF Model Performance using Satellite Data Assimilation Technique for the Uintah Basin, Utah

In this study we performed modeling data assimilation using the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite observational data of surface albedo, snow and vegetation coverage to the WRF meteorological model for a modeling case study in winter 2013 in the Uintah Basin, Utah. Unlike standard WRF simulation in which estimations of surface albedo and vegetation cover are based on long-term and outdated climatology data, using MODIS data assimilation technique provides real-time land surface characteristics to WRF and are independent of WRF performance in simulating other meteorologies. We will compare WRF model performance with using MODIS data assimilation against with using analysis and observational nudging techniques. Technical approach of WRF model modifications to accommodate MODIS data assimilation will be briefly discussed.