The “Triple Point” on 24 May 2002 during IHOP. Part I: Airborne Doppler and LASE Analyses of the Frontal Boundaries and Convection Initiation

摘要: An analysis of the initiation deep convection near triple point between a cold front and dryline is presented. High-spatial-resolution Doppler wind syntheses combined with vertical cross sections mixing ratio (q) aerosol scattering retrieved from lidar flying over provide an unprecedented view process. The synthesis revealed variability along similar to precipitation core/gap structure documented for oceanic fronts. Vertical through suggest density current–like hot dry air being forced up moist air. Double thin lines associated moisture gradients were also resolved. profile q, approximately perpendicular dryline, showed pronounced jump in depth layer across point. Analyses dropsonde data show existence virtual potential temperature (V) dryline. Although velocity was strong at point, initiated 50 km east. location where first developed characterized by prominent plume, reduced static stability, largest instability. internal gravity wave may have provided lift initiate convection.