Mesoscale Model Simulations of High-Wind Events in the Complex Terrain of Western Nevada

Abstract

The fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University?National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesoscale Model (MM5) has been used to simulate high-wind events in the complex terrain of western Nevada. The objective was to determine the resolution necessary to produce accurate forecasts of high surface wind and to explore utilizing numerical model output as warning decision guidance in data-sparse areas. Two high-wind cases were simulated by the MM5 to demonstrate the feasibility of high-resolution models in the West. These events produced sustained surface winds of greater than 39 kt (20 m s?1), and wind gusts in excess of 78 kt (40 m s?1), which resulted in extensive damage. In both cases, the MM5 simulation was able to capture the mountain waves responsible for the high winds. The operational Eta Model, in comparison, did not indicate the existence of high-wind events. Results suggested that a model horizontal grid spacing of 5 km or less is necessary to predict accurately high-wind events in the complex terrain of Nevada.