Initial Results from the GABLS3 SCM with the Noah-MP Land Surface Model in NOAAs Next Generation Operational Unified Forecast System

The land surface model (LSM) development in NOAAs next generation Unified Forecast System (UFS) framework is underway. Noah-MP is a candidate replacement for the Noah LSM in the operational configuration of the UFS. Following a hierarchical testing framework, this presentation summarizes a series of experiments using the single column model (SCM) with the Common Community Physics Package (CCPP) for the Third GEWEX Atmospheric Boundary Layer Study (GABLS3). In addition to comparing the performance of the Noah and Noah-MP LSMs, sensitivity of the Noah-MP LSM to initial soil moisture conditions and multi-options of physics processes is explored. It is found that the Noah-MP LSM is sensitive to the multi-options of physical processes such as the stomatal resistance scheme and the land-atmosphere coupling. The initial soil moisture conditions in Noah-MP have large effects on the Bowen ratio and vertical profiles in the lower troposphere, suggesting the spin-up is necessary to adjust the suitable soil moisture for the specified options of physical processes in Noah-MP. The methods used, initial results obtained, and broader implications will be discussed in the presentation.