The quasi-steady state of the valley wind system

Abstract

The quasi-steady-state limit of the diurnal valley wind system is investigated over idealized three-dimensional topography. Although this limit is rarely attained in reality due to ever-changing forcings, the investigation of this limit can provide valuable insight, in particular on the mass and heat fluxes associated with the along-valley wind. We derive a scaling relation for the quasi-steady-state along-valley mass flux as a function of valley geometry, valley size, atmospheric stratification, and surface sensible heat flux forcing. The scaling relation is tested by comparison with the mass flux diagnosed from numerical simulations of the valley wind system. Good agreement is found. The results also provide insight into the relation between surface friction and the strength of the along-valley pressure gradient.