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Gravity Waves Enhance the Extreme Precipitation in Henan, China, July 2021
  • Xiang Feng,
  • Feimin Zhang,
  • Chenghai Wang
Xiang Feng
Lanzhou University
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Feimin Zhang
Lanzhou University
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Chenghai Wang
Lanzhou University

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

This study utilizes radar, sounding observations, and convective-permitting simulations with a non-hydrostatic mesoscale model to investigate the effects of gravity waves originating from the southwest mountain on the intensification of the extreme precipitation event occurred in Henan Province, Central China, in July 2021 (referred to as the “21.7” event). The gravity waves have wave speeds of approximately 11.5 m s-1 and wavelengths ranging from 60 to 90 km. These gravity waves are generated by the interaction between a northwest-southeast direction mountain (Funiu Mountain, FNM) and a southwesterly flow originated from the mesoscale convective vortex (MCV) developing from an inverted trough southwest of the rainfall center. Then, these waves propagate northeastward through a wave duct featuring a stable layer between 5 and 9 km altitude, capped by a low-stability reflecting layer with a critical level. As they propagate, these waves trigger banded convective cells along their path. Upon the arrival of gravity wave peaks at the rainfall center, they induce the downward energy flux of gravity waves from high troposphere levels (~7 km). The downward wave energy dynamically interacts with the upward wave energy from gravity waves excited by latent heating at the lower tropospheric level (~1 km). This synergistic effect intensifies the ascending motion and results in a precipitation increase of over 20% at the rainfall center. This study highlights the significance of orographic gravity waves in shaping extreme precipitation events.
18 Jan 2024Submitted to ESS Open Archive
18 Jan 2024Published in ESS Open Archive