A multimodel assessment of RKW theory's relevance to squall-line characteristics

Abstract

The authors evaluate whether the structure and intensity of simulated squall lines can be explained by "RKW theory," which most specifically addresses how density currents evolve in sheared environments. In contrast to earlier studies, this study compares output from four numerical models, rather than from just one. All of the authors' simulations support the qualitative application of RKW theory, whereby squall-line structure is primarily governed by two effects: the intensity of the squall line's surface-based cold pool, and the low- to midlevel environmental vertical wind shear. The simulations using newly developed models generally support the theory's quantitative application, whereby an optimal state for system structure also optimizes system intensity. However, there are significant systematic differences between the newer numerical models and the older model that was originally used to develop RKW theory. Two systematic differences are analyzed in detail, and causes for these differences are proposed. © 2006 American Meteorological Society.