Energy Analysis of Convectively Induced Wind Perturbations

Abstract

Budgets of divergent and rotational components of kinetic energy (KD and KR) are examined for four upper level wind speed maxima that develop during the fourth Atmospheric Variability Experiment (AVE IV) and the first AVE-Severe Environmental Storms and Mesoscale Experiment (AVE-SESAME I). A similar budget analysis for a low-level jet stream during AVE-SESAME I also is performed. Special radiosonde data at 3 or 6 h intervals and mesoscale horizontal spacing (AVE-SESAME I only) are a major advantage to the cases selected. Previous studies have attributed the development of upper level wind maxima during AVE IV to the presence of mesoscale convective complexes. They appear to be similarly formed, or at least enhanced, during the SESAME case; however, strong preexisting dynamics and less reliable wind data make the determination more difficult. The energetics of the four upper level speed maxima is found to have several similarities. The dominant source of KD is cross-contour flow by the divergent wind, and KD provides a major source of KR via a conversion process. Conversion from available potential energy provides an additional source of KR in three of the cases. Horizontal maps reveal that the conversions involving KD are maximized in regions poleward of the convection, i.e., where the speed maxima form. Low level jet development during AVE-SESAME I appears to be assisted by convective activity to the west. Enhanced low level convergence produces conversion from available potential energy to KD and then to KR. These aspects are similar to those occurring in the upper-level speed maxima.