Numerical simulations of typhoon hagupit (2008) using WRF

Abstract

We used a mesoscale atmospheric model to simulate Typhoon Hagupit (2008) in the South China Sea (SCS). First, we chose optimized parameterization schemes based on a series of sensitivity tests. The results suggested that a combination of the Kain–Fritsch cumulus scheme and the Goddard microphysics scheme was the best choice for reproducing both the track and intensity of Typhoon Hagupit. Next, the simulated rainfall was compared with microwave remote sensing products. This comparison validated the model results for both the magnitude of rainfall and the location of heavy rain relative to the typhoon’s center. Furthermore, the potential vorticity and vertical wind speed displayed the asymmetric horizontal and tilted vertical structures of Typhoon Hagupit. Finally, we compared the simulation of air–sea turbulent fluxes with estimations from an in situ buoy. The time series of momentum fluxes were roughly consistent, while the model still overestimated heat fluxes, especially right before the typhoon’s arrival at the buoy.