A variable vertical resolution weather model with an explicitly resolved planetary boundary layer

Abstract

A version of the fourth order weather model incorporating surface wind stress data from SEASAT A scatterometer observations is presented. The Monin-Obukhov similarity theory is used to relate winds at the top of the surface layer to surface wind stress. A reasonable approximation of surface fluxes of heat, moisture, and momentum are obtainable using this method. A Richardson number adjustment scheme based on the ideas of Chang is used to allow for turbulence effects.