Course Description
Fundamental theory, analysis, and exercises on mesoscale weather phenomena and principles of radar meteorology. A major topical focus will be thunderstorms, mesoscale convective systems, and tornadic supercells. Other topics will include mesoscale classification, observing systems, the boundary layer, circulations, flooding, mesoscale tropical systems, mesoscale modeling, short-range forecasting/nowcasting, and mesoscale climatology.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will be expected to engage in an advanced
assessment of current topics in radar and mesoscale
meteorology. This may include, but is not limited to, an in-
depth literature review and presentation on emerging topics,
conference-style poster session on an instructor-assigned
topic, and/or an appropriate research case study. In many
instances, graduate projects and participation will be aligned
with proposed or ongoing graduate research projects.
Athena Title
Mesoscale Radar Meteor Climato
Prerequisite
ATSC(GEOG) 3120-3120L
Undergraduate Pre or Corequisite
MATH 2250
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
The objectives of the course are fourfold: Objective 1: To expose the student to the fundamental theories, concepts, and processes related to weather phenomena with space (less than a few hundred miles) and time (less than one day) scales representative of the mesoscale. The student will be introduced to the classification philosophy, observational approaches, and phenomena associated with the mesoscale. At the same time, the student will gain knowledge on how mesoscale processes (e.g., storms, circulations) are coupled to phenomena at broader and finer scales. Objective 2: To introduce the student to the fundamentals of radar meteorology. Within the scope of this objective, the student will be exposed to basic remote-sensing concepts, the historical evolution of radar meteorology, and mathematical- physical concepts underpinning radar-based meteorological measurements. The student will also be exposed to current and emerging technologies and methods within the field of radar meteorology. The student will also be expected to master basic interpretation of weather radar imagery as related to mesoscale weather processes. This requirement will also expose the student to hands-on interaction with computer-based radar processing and analysis. Objective 3: To expose the student to methods and concepts related to mesoscale analysis and forecasting. The student will be introduced to mesoscale numerical models, nowcasting, and short-term forecasting. The student will also be exposed to the various meteorological instrumentation, networks, and tools (thermodynamic diagrams, convective parameters) that are typically employed in meso-analysis and forecasting. Objective 4: To expose the student to mesoscale signatures at the climate scale. A particular emphasis will be on hydroclimate processes and signals inherently linked to mesoscale processes. Successful completion of this course will provide the following learning outcomes: A basic survey of mesoscale meteorological-climate processes and how these processes are linked to human and environmental systems. A fundamental understanding of concepts and processes related to mesoscale weather processes as well as knowledge on the implications to the climate scale. A fundamental understanding of radar (e.g., active) remote- sensing concepts and methodologies applied in mesoscale meteorological/climate analysis and forecasting. A rigorous review of current and future radar meteorology systems/methodologies for meteorological and climate studies. An opportunity to engage in inquiry-based learning and hands-on application of meteorological and climate radar and observational data through modules and scenarios. Enhanced computer literacy through email/internet transactions, basic computer programming philosophy, internet-based data acquisition, data processing, and analysis through applications modules and inquiry-based scenarios. More effective communication through speech and writing as a result of in-class presentations, posters, and written assignments. A greater cognizance of the importance of science in the everyday functioning of our planet and its crucial role in informing science and socio-political stakeholders and policymakers.
Topical Outline
The course timeline will be based on the following sequence: Date Lecture Topic Definition of Mesoscale Mesoscale Classification Mesoscale Observing Networks and Systems Radar: The instrument of the Mesoscale Primer on Cloud Microphysics Evolution of Weather Radar Basics of Radar: Radar equation, Doppler Meteorological targets and radar Advanced Meteorological Applications of Radar (Polarimetric, Continuous Wave, DOW, Bi-Static, CW) Review of Thermodynamics, Parcel Theory, Entrainment and Shear Convective Systems I: Isolated Convection Convective Systems II: Mesoscale Convective Systems Convective Systems III: Supercells and Tornadoes, Hail, Wet and Dry Microbursts, Lightning Floods Planetary Boundary Layer Processes Circulations (Thermal and Terrain) and Meso-Boundaries Mesoscale Processes in Winter Weather Mesoscale Modeling Nowcasting and Short-Term Mesoscale Forecasting Mesoscale Climate Analysis and Dynamics The course laboratory section will expose the students to principles of radar and mesoscale meteorology. The student will complete several online COMET modules (http://www.meted.ucar.edu/topics_meso.php and through the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research. These modules are self-contained interactive lessons with performance-based metrics. The laboratory modules will include: • Definition of the Mesoscale • Mesoscale Primer • Lectures on Radar Applications in Mesoscale Meteorology • Skew-T Mastery • Mesoscale Convective Systems • How Mesoscale Models Work • Mesoscale Aspects of Winter Weather Forecasting • Real-Time Mesoscale Analysis (RTMA) Additionally, the students will be expected to use existing capabilities within the Geography Department (GRLEVELx) and available NOAA-based radar data to conduct historical and real- time case studies related to an array of mesoscale topics.
Syllabus