| The Sierra Rotors Project took place in March and April 2004 in Owens Valley, California to study terrain-induced rotors. An intense rotor event was documented during Intensive Observing Period (IOP) 8 on 24--26 March 2004. This case was simulated with a mesoscale numerical weather model run at 333 m resolution. This study analyzes the evolution and structure of simulated mountain waves and rotors during this event, in which horizontal circulation associated with the rotor extended to the valley floor, where it was observed as easterly flow by the DRI mesonetwork of surface stations. The model accurately reproduced the timing and spatial structure of many of the observed phenomena, including thermal circulations in the valley at the start of the event, an intense mountain wave during the period of observed easterly flow, and strong westerlies on the Sierra Nevada lee slopes. |
