Numerical Simulations and Observational Study of a Mesoscale Convective System in France, During the HyMeX—SOP1 Using the WRF Model

Abstract

An intense and fast moving convective line that crossed Massif Central/Cevennes-Vivarais area (south France) during the field campaign of HYdrological cycle in Mediterranean EXperiment (HyMeX)-Special Observing Period 1 (SOP1) is examined. The mesoscale analysis demonstrates a complex convective system with a V-shape in the Infrared (IR) satellite imagery, while ground stations observed up to 100 mm of rain accumulation. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) non-hydrostatic model was used to simulate this convective episode and sensitivity tests were performed on explicit microphysics, as well as on convective parameterizations in high resolution domains. Satellite data from SEVIRI Rapid Scan Service were used in conjunction with rain gauge data to conclude at the best simulation at which the WRF model exhibits a rather precise and realistic distribution and evolution of the precipitation patterns.