WRF Model Simulations of Orographically-Forced Mesoscale Turbulence in Stable Marine Boundary Layers

The purpose of this research is to use the WRF model to simulate the effects of orography in the generation of mesoscale turbulence structures. Satellite and local observations are used to chart occurrences of eddies (commonly seen around the coast of Grover Beach, CA, Catalina Island, Guadeloupe Island, for example).  Model runs are conducted using the WRF model with a resolution high enough to re-create the eddies, yet maintaining computational efficiency to save computer time. The goal is to be able to forecast terrain-induced turbulence, which could have potential safety concerns in the field of general aviation. A systematic selection of different model resolutions and the associated forecast turbulence will be presented.