Elevated residual layers and their influence on surface boundary- layer evolution

Abstract

ERLs may form frequently in regions near mountains where terrain gradients exist. A simple slab mixed-layer model is used to examine how idealized ERL potential temperature profiles influence surface boundary-layer development. In addition, several regionally generated ERLs were observed over Phoenix, Arizona, during the southwest Area Monsoon Project. These ERLs appear to have produced a change from moistening to entrainment-drying surface boundary-layer regimes. Results suggest that the creation and evolution of ERLs may be important aspects of surface boundary-layer development in regions near and downstream of elevated terrain. -from Author