Continuous Forcing data at SGP, Version 2, 2004-2015 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The constrained variational objective analysis approach described in Zhang and Lin [1997] and Zhang et al. [2001] was used to derive the continuous large-scale single-column/cloud resolving model forcing and evaluation data set for SGP site. The resulting products include both the large-scale forcing terms and the evaluation fields, which can be used for driving the Single-Column Models (SCMs) and Cloud Resolving Models (CRMs) and validating model simulations. Results from our studies are then used to improve cloud parameterizations in Global Climate Models (GCMs). The continuous forcing data was derived using the hourly Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) (before May 2012) or the Rapid Refresh (RAP) (after May 2012) analysis archived by ARM Archive as background, and constrained with the ARM ground surface measurements and the NOAA GOES-8 satellite data. Note that sounding data were not used in this data set. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ This is the second version (V2) of continuous forcing data. One major update comparing to the first version (V1) of continuous forcing (1999-2011) is the incorporation of Eddy Correlation Flux Measurement System (ECOR) data. The surface latent and sensible fluxes in this version are merged from Best-Estimate Fluxes from Energy Balance Bowen Ratio (EBBR) Measurements and Bulk Aerodynamics Calculations (BAEBBR) and Quality Controlled Eddy Correlation Flux Measurement (QCECOR) value-added products (VAP). The satellite data are also updated with bug fixing and improved TOA fluxes. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The data is provided in netcdf format: sgp60varanarucC1.c1.YYYYMM01.000000.cdf "ruc" is replaced by "rap" since May 2012. quick plots are available at: http://portal.nersc.gov/project/capt/ARMForcingData/tang32/ContinuousForcing/v2/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- references: Xie, S., R. T. Cederwall, and M. Zhang (2004), Developing long-term single-column model/cloud system–resolving model forcing data using numerical weather prediction products constrained by surface and top of the atmosphere observations, J. Geophys. Res., 109, D01104, doi:10.1029/2003JD004045. Zhang, M. H., and J. L. Lin (1997), Constrained variational analysis of sounding data bases on column-integrated budgets of mass, heat, moisture, and momentum: Approach and application to ARM measurements. J. Atmos. Sci., 54, 1503-1524. Zhang, M. H., J. L. Lin, R. T. Cederwall, J. J. Yio, and S. C. Xie (2001), Objective analysis of ARM IOP Data: Method and sensitivity. Mon. Weather Rev., 129, 295-311. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Contacts For questions, data request, or to report data problems, please contact: Shuaiqi Tang: tang32@llnl.gov Shaocheng Xie: xie2@llnl.gov