Convective Organization in a Tropical Boundary Layer: An Interpretation of Doppler Radar Observations Using Asai's Model

Abstract

Convective structures in a tropical boundary layer were analyzed using two Doppler radars. Their spatial organization is examined, revealing favored directions of alignment of cells in the four cases studied. The effect of the wind shear on the organization of these cells is studied using Asai's model and taking into account the thermal stratification. The results are in agreement with observations, showing longitudinal or transverse modes of alignment depending on the stratification. However some observed modes of large wavelength could not be simulated by the model.