Modelling
The basis of the EPiCC modelling component is the TEB-ISBA [TEB - Town Energy Budget; ISBA - Interactions Soil-Biosphere-Atmosphere] modeling system developed by Masson (2000) and Noilhan and Planton (1989). There are three subcomponents to this part of EPiCC.
Canadian-Optimized version of TEB-ISBA
TEB is arguably the most fully evaluated of available urban-surface parameterizations; however, testing has been largely restricted to densely built-up settings where the vegetated fraction, and therefore the latent heat flux, has been very low. These locations, while highly urban in character, do not represent the full spectrum of urban land use.
EPiCC will continue development and testing of the TEB-ISBA system with an emphasis on:
- urban residential and suburban settings
- typical Canadian climate conditions
- links to urban hydrology
- coupling between TEB and ISBA in urban settings
Mesoscale Atmospheric Modeling and Studies of the Urban Boundary Layer (UBL)
Overview and Objectives These assessments will be based on sensitivity tests of the modeling system (including TEB) and will also use detailed comparisons with available observations including the use of the existing Montréal mesonet, observations from the flux observation sites installed as part of this proposal, and existing McGill University radar facilities.
Assessments to be performed include:
- studying the impact on the UBL when TEB is incorporated in the modeling system
- investigation into mesoscale urban-induced circulations
- impacts of urban processes on clouds
TEB-ISBA and the MSC Prediction System
To assist with operational implementation of the TEB-ISBA scheme into the MSC Prediction Scheme, EPiCC will
- insert an urban component in the off-line prediction system for Canadian urban areas to provide fine-resolution prediction of surface-layer atmospheric variables in urban areas.
- demonstrate the contribution of TEB / TEB-ISBA to the forecast system using analysis of local to mesoscale data from mesonetworks, radar observations and remotely sensed imagery
Related Urban-scale Modelling Projects
- "Canadian Urban Flow and Dispersion Model: Advanced Emergency Response System for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Hazard Prediction and Assessment for the Urban Environment"
