Summary: This study investigates how different physical parameterizations within the WRF model affect wind and temperature simulations over the Northern Sahara and the Mediterranean Basin. The research aims to identify model configurations that accurately represent wind fields in these regions, which are characterized by diverse climatic conditions and are of interest for wind energy applications.

Authors: Umberto Rizza

Publication Date: 2022

Summary:

This study investigates how different physical parameterizations within the WRF model affect wind and temperature simulations over the Northern Sahara and the Mediterranean Basin. The research aims to identify model configurations that accurately represent wind fields in these regions, which are characterized by diverse climatic conditions and are of interest for wind energy applications.

Methods:

• Study Area: The domain encompasses the Northern Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Basin, regions with contrasting surface characteristics and atmospheric dynamics.
• Model Configurations: Five planetary boundary layer (PBL) and surface layer parameterization schemes were tested. Simulations covered the entire month of November 2017 to capture a range of meteorological conditions.
• Evaluation Metrics: Model outputs for 10-meter wind speed and 2-meter temperature were compared against observational data from 23 meteorological stations distributed across the study area. Statistical metrics such as mean bias (MB), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and correlation coefficient (COR) were used to evaluate model performance.

Findings:

• Grid Nudging: Introducing grid nudging parameters led to a general improvement in the modeled 10 m wind speed and 2 m temperature. In particular, nudging of horizontal wind components within the planetary boundary layer (PBL) yielded the best overall results.
• PBL Schemes: The choice of PBL scheme significantly influenced wind speed simulations. Some schemes provided better performance in capturing wind speed magnitudes and diurnal cycles.

Implications:

The study underscores the necessity of carefully selecting WRF model configurations tailored to the specific characteristics of the study area. Optimal combinations of physical parameterizations and grid nudging are essential for accurate wind and temperature simulations, which are critical for the planning and development of wind energy projects.

Access the full paper: https://www.academia.edu/83859741/WRF_Sensitivity_Analysis_in_Wind_and_Temperature_Fields_Simulation_for_the_Northern_Sahara_and_the_Mediterranean_Basin