Observations and modelling of downslope windstorm in Novorossiysk

Abstract

We present a comprehensive study of the three-dimensional structure of the Novorossiysk bora, a severe downslope windstorm on the north-eastern coast of the Black Sea. The analysis is based on observational data obtained from the Russian Hydrometeorological Service, automatic weather stations, sodar system, microwave temperature profiler and 10-m mast. In addition, WRF-ARW simulations are performed to verify and complement the observations. The data permit us to investigate major features of the flow over mountain ridges during several bora episodes. The qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the Novorossiysk bora were compared with those of other downslope winds, such as the Adriatic bora, the Boulder windstorm, and the Alpine foehn.