Advances in Model Physics for the Next Implementation of the GFS (GFSv16)

As part of the Next Generation Global Prediction System (NGGPS) initiative, NCEP/EMC recently replaced the dynamic core in its flagship operational model, the Global Forecast System (GFS), with the non-hydrostatic Finite-volume Cubed-Sphere (FV3) core, which was developed by GFDL. Another significant step in this ongoing initiative is advancing the model’s representation of physical processes. Several significant physics upgrades are being targeted for the next implementation of the GFS (GFSv16) and the impacts of these upgrades are currently being assessed. These impacts will be presented and discussed in this presentation. Specifically, the impact of significant upgrades to parameterizations of 1) gravity-wave drag, 2) land surface, 3) radiation, and 4) the planetary boundary layer (PBL) will be highlighted