High Resolution Hurricane Simulations Using NRL's Mesoscale Modeling System

Development of mesoscale models and advances in tropical cyclone (TC) observation systems have allowed numerical simulations and investigations at high resolution (several kilometers) of dynamic and thermodynamic structures of TCs, which, in turn, help improve TC intensity and structure forecasts. Used as the operational numerical weather prediction model by the US Navy and other communities for a wide range of weather phenomena, the Coupled Ocean/Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS@) is under continuous improvements in its physics and numerics. Recent improvements to the COAMPS include an improved microphysical parameterization, modifications to the surface flux parameterization over the ocean incorporating new observations at high winds, a new radiation scheme that enhances interactions between clouds and radiation, and the representation of dissipative heating in the model. The objective of this study is to assess the COAMPS capability of TC predictions at high resolution (1-3 km). Results will be shown that describe inner core structure of hurricanes during various development stage at various resolutions. Additionally, impact of the one- way and two-way interactive boundary conditions for the moving nests under high resolution will be evaluated.