Idealized large-eddy and convection-resolving simulations of moist convection over mountainous terrain

AbstractOn summertime fair-weather days, thermally driven wind systems play an important role in determining the initiation of convection and the occurrence of localized precipitation episodes over mountainous terrain. This study compares the mechanisms of convection initiation and precipitation development within a thermally driven flow over an idealized double-ridge system in large-eddy (LESs) and convection-resolving (CRM) simulations. First, LES at a horizontal grid spacing of 200 m is employed to analyze the developing circulations and associated clouds and precipitation. Second, CRM simulations at horizontal grid length of 1 km are conducted to evaluate the performance of a kilometer-scale model in reproducing the discussed mechanisms.Mass convergence and a weaker inhibition over the two ridges flanking the valley combine with water vapor advection by upslope winds to initiate deep convection. In the CRM simulations, the spatial distribution of clouds and precipitation is generally well captured. Ho...