Mountain waves in the planetary boundary layer of the Venezuelan Andes

Abstract

Dynamic and thermodynamic conditions of the planetary boundary layer of the Venezuelan Andean region for the generation of mountain waves are evaluated. The Froude number is calculated by relating the static stability in the presence of orographic supported vertical wind profiles, diagrams and thermodynamic analysis of satellite images. It is found that when an air flow perpendicular to the Venezuelan Andes with winds greater than 10 m / s under conditions of stability or temperature inversion over the top, availability of higher humidity to 70% from surface to its top and the number Froude slightly greater than 1, the result is the presence of mountain waves associated with lenticular clouds at the leeward side of the mountain range.