Mesoscale macrophysical and plume-scale microphysical properties of the boundary layer as observed and simulated during MAGIC and ACE-ENA

Abstract:

Marine boundary layer clouds and rain have proven difficult to accurately simulate in global models. In this poster, we demonstrate how observations from two field campaigns can be used to investigate the parameterized representation of physical processes that are essential for accurately simulating the subtropical marine boundary layer. To do so, a single column model employing the JPL Eddy-Diffusivity/Mass-Flux cloud, turbulence, and warm rain parameterization is forced by MERRA2 and ARM VARANAL datasets over the same locations as the ship that is used in the MAGIC campaigns and the location of the ARM ENA site, Graciosa Island. To provide a fitness check on the physics of the single column model parameterization, simulations are compared to co-located campaign observations of low cloud cover, liquid water path, surface rain rate, profiles of cloud fraction, and the ratio of rain rate to liquid water path in individual plumes. Plume-scale comparisons of the ratio RR/LWP facilitate an understanding of both macrophysical and microphysical processes needed to accurately simulate the spectrum of shallow convection. This presentation will highlight the advantages of utilizing multiple diverse field campaigns in avoiding overtuning to specific idealized and smoothed characteristic cases.