Ninth Conference on Mountain Meteorology

P1.8

Evaluation of Atmospheric Boundary Layer dynamics in an alpine valley

Massimiliano de Franceschi, Univ. of Trento, Trento, Italy; and G. Rampanelli, D. Zardi, M. Tagliazucca, and F. Tampieri

Measurement campaigns have been performed in the Adige Valley close to the city of Bolzano (Northern Italy) in order to identify specific features of the atmospheric boundary layer processes in the area.

Ground based measurements, including both conventional meteorological instruments and advanced sensors (namely an ultrasonic anemometer and a doppler sodar) have been obtained.

Also airborne measurement with an equipped motor-glider have been collected and analyzed with geostatistical techniques in order to evaluate the spatial distribution of potential temperature within a valley cross-section.

The subsequent data analysis, which includes surface fluxes estimate, exhibits specific features of the investigated area, and in particular the effects of local circulation and secondary flows like ana/katabatic winds which may possibly affect the fate of pollutants emitted by different sources.

The spectral analysis of the velocity components shows some interesting aspects too: together with the expected dependance on frequency in an inertial subrange, one may observe an excess of low frequency energy which indicates disturbances in the flow produced by terrain inhomogeneity.

Poster Session 1, Poster Session P1: Poster Session with Buffet Dinner
Wednesday, 9 August 2000, 6:00 PM-6:00 PM

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