Updraft and downdraft core size and intensity as revealed by radar wind profilers: MCS observations and idealized model comparisons

Additional similarities include weak positive correlations between core intensity and core width (correlation coefficient r similar to 0.5) and increases in draft intensity with altitude. A model-observational intercomparison for draft properties (core width, intensity, and mass flux) is also performed to illustrate the potential usefulness of statistical observed draft characterizations. Idealized simulations with the Weather Research and Forecasting model aligned with midlatitude MCS conditions are performed at model grid spacings (Delta x) that range from 4 km to 250 m.

It is shown that the simulations performed at Delta x = 250 m at similar mature MCS lifecycle stages are those that exhibit draft intensity, width, mass flux, and shape parameter performances best matching with observed properties.