Cyclogenesis and Frontogenesis Processes Over Western North America and Vicinity

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Dr. Bosart is one of the leading synopticians in the field of atmospheric sciences. He will continue and expand upon his previous work on midlatitude cyclogenesis and frontogenesis, relying on climatological and case study investigations which encompass atmospheric processes on the planetary, synoptic and meso-scales. Dr. Bosart will pursue three major research thrusts. The first is an investigation of the cyclone and frontal formation in the intermountain regions of the western United States. A particularly difficult forecast situation arises when upper tropospheric disturbances encounter mountain barriers. Sometimes the subsequent flow pattern results in the development of a quasi- stationary storm system in the mountain regions. At other times, the disturbance will continue moving eastward. Through his analyses, Dr. Bosart would like to distinguish between the conditions which cause these two very different weather patterns. The second major area of research is the study of merger and separation of wave disturbances at different levels in the atmosphere affect storm development. Finally, Dr. Bosart will take on a new research project, looking at the interaction between the midlatitude cyclone development and transient disturbances emanating from the subtropical jet stream. In addition to their intrinsic scientific interest, the questions Dr. Bosart hopes to answer have direct implications for improved operational weather forecasting.