Sensitivity of the WRF model to the parameterized physical process

Abstract

The present study explores the performance of different microphysics (MP) and cumulus parameterization (CP) scheme in the simulation of an extreme rainfall event during 0000 UTC July 11 2016 - 0000 UTC July 12, 2016 at the west coast of India, Mumbai. Twelve experiments were conducted using a dynamic core of Advanced Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with Three Dimensional-Variational (3D-Var) assimilation system. The Global Forecast System (GFS) analysis data were utilised with INSAT-3D sounder profile and compared with Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMaP). The results indicate that among all experiments, WRF Single-Moment 6-class (WSM6) - the microphysics scheme has better quality in simulation of the rainfall over the Betts-Miller-Janjic (BMJ) - the cumulus parameterization scheme, and all four MP schemes with BMJ - cumulus parameterization combination gives the accurate predictive ability over the region.