Note on a Simple, Restorative-Iterative Procedure for Initialization of a Global Forecast Model

Abstract

A restorative-iterative procedure is tested in initializing the height and wind fields for a global, barotropic prediction model. Real 500-mb data are used as the basis of initial height values in the midlatitudes and as the basis of the initial stream function values in the Tropics. The procedure is tested for the case of frictionless and adiabatic flow and for the case where friction and a simulated heating function are included. Experiments were also performed in which an ?observed? divergent wind was added in the Tropics. Results are encouraging in the sense that use of the procedure substantially reduces the amplitudes of the external inertia-gravity motions excited by the initial imbalance between the mass and wind fields.