Application of fourth-order accurate differences to a three-parameter baroclinic model of the atmosphere, part 2

Fourth-order difference approximations are implemented in a three-parameter baroclinic quasigeostrophic model of the atmosphere based on a modified version of the Bushby-Whitelam model, currently in use at the Israeli Meteorological Office. The fourth-order accurate numerical forecast on a mesh covering Europe and the Mediterranean regions results in improved locations of low- and high-pressure centres as compared with the second-order forecast. The scheme also yields better estimates of the changes in position and intensity of the synoptic systems. The fourth-order numerical forecast tends, however, to lower the values at the pressure centres.