Favored Regions of Convective Initiation

本研究的重点是研究在落基山脉的首选地区控制雷暴产生的物理机制。具体而言，主要研究人员将设法确定山脉的动力和热效应以及更大规模的天气强迫在控制雷暴形成地点方面的相对作用。主要研究人员将结合数值模型模拟、实际数据和统计分析来完成研究目标。该项目的研究成果将有助于预测降水和恶劣天气。被称为中尺度对流系统（MCS）的雷暴系统是美国春夏降雨和恶劣天气的主要原因。这些中尺度对流系统通常始于落基山脉及其附近的小型对流系统。更好地了解落基山脉系统的起源应有助于更好地预报MCSs。

This research is focused on investigating the physical mechanisms which control the generation of thunderstorms in preferred regions of the Rocky Mountains. Specifically, the Principal Investigators will seek to determine the relative role of the dynamic and thermal effects of the mountains and the larger scale synoptic forcing in controlling the locations where thunderstorms form. The Principal Investigators will use a combination of numerical model simulations, actual data and statistical analyses to accomplish the research objectives.The results of this project are expected to aid in the forecasting of precipitation and severe weather. Systems of thunderstorms known as mesoscale convective systems (MCS) are responsible for much of the Spring/Summer rainfall and severe weather in the U.S. These MCSs often begin as smaller convective systems in and near the Rocky Mountains. Better understanding of the initiation of the Rocky Mountain systems should contribute to better forecasts of MCSs.