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Scale- and Variable-Dependent Localization for 3DEnVar Data Assimilation in the Rapid Refresh Forecast System
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  • Sho Yokota,
  • Jacob Carley,
  • Ting Lei,
  • Shun Liu,
  • Daryl T. Kleist,
  • Yongming Wang,
  • Xuguang Wang
Sho Yokota
Numerical Prediction Development Center, Japan Meteorological Agency

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Jacob Carley
NOAA/NCEP/EMC
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Ting Lei
Lynker
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Shun Liu
EMC/NCEP
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Daryl T. Kleist
NOAA/NCEP Environmental Modeling Center
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Yongming Wang
University of Oklahoma
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Xuguang Wang
University of Oklahoma
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Abstract

This study demonstrates the advantages of scale- and variable-dependent localization (SDL and VDL) on three-dimensional ensemble variational data assimilation of the hourly-updated high-resolution regional forecast system, the Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS). SDL and VDL apply different localization radii for each spatial scale and variable, respectively, by extended control vectors. Single-observation assimilation tests and cycling experiments with RRFS indicated that SDL can enlarge the localization radius without increasing the sampling error caused by the small ensemble size and decreased associated imbalance of the analysis field, which was effective at decreasing the bias of temperature and humidity forecasts. Moreover, simultaneous assimilation of conventional and radar reflectivity data with VDL, where a smaller localization radius was applied only for hydrometeors and vertical wind, improved precipitation forecasts without introducing noisy analysis increments. Statistical verification showed that these impacts contributed to forecast error reduction, especially for low-level temperature and heavy precipitation.
24 Jul 2024Submitted to ESS Open Archive
24 Jul 2024Published in ESS Open Archive