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Episodic Performance and Sensitivity of the Urbanized MM5 (uMM5) to Perturbations in Surface Properties in Houston Texas

Boundary-Layer Meteorology volume 127, pages 193–218 (2008)Cite this article

Abstract

We present an application of a fine-resolution, meso-urban meteorological model (urbanized MM5; uMM5) to a multi-day episode in August 2000 in the Houston-Galveston Texas, USA region. The model’s episodic performance and its response to small changes in land-cover and surface physical properties in the area, e.g., scenarios of urban heat island mitigation, are evaluated. The model formulation is reviewed along with its parameterizations, data needs, and fine-resolution geometrical input. Development of scenarios of increased urban albedo and vegetative cover is also discussed. This initial application of the uMM5 to the Houston-Galveston region serves as a basis for future model improvements, evaluation of newer data and parameterization applications, testing more aggressive surface modification scenarios, and performing fine-resolution photochemical modelling. It also provides data for comparison of model results with those from previous studies of this region.

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  1. Altostratus Inc., 940 Toulouse Way, Martinez, CA, 94553, USA

    Haider Taha

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  1. Haider Taha
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Taha, H. Episodic Performance and Sensitivity of the Urbanized MM5 (uMM5) to Perturbations in Surface Properties in Houston Texas. Boundary-Layer Meteorol 127, 193–218 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-007-9258-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-007-9258-6

Keywords

  • Meteorological modelling
  • Model performance
  • Surface modifications
  • Urban canopy parameterizations
  • Urban heat island