Inertial oscillation modelling of low-level jets: an application to the complex terrain and double-nosed wind profiles

Abstract

This study investigates the role of inertial oscillations in the evolution of a nocturnal Low-Level Jet (LLJ) in complex terrain and explores the impacts of local perturbations on wind dynamics. Specifically, a conceptual model based on inertial oscillations (Van de Wiel et al. J Atmos Sci 67(8):2679–2689 (2010)) is used to replicate the evolution of an LLJ in a gentle-sloping valley ensuring to capture its long-period dynamics under weak synoptic forcing. The analysis is performed on an already-analysed case study from the Mountain Terrain Atmospheric Modeling and Observations (MATERHORN) data set, taking advantage of the known local flow characteristics and the existence of a temporary anomaly in the LLJ shape called double-nosed LLJ. In an attempt to capture this last flow feature, a model modification is introduced, revealing appropriate to capture the double-nosed shape of the LLJ. Further observational studies will be needed to corroborate the operational use of this model and explore its application potential in different wind and energy sectors.