Numerics-turbulence interactions in atmospheric models

• Grant number: 22/13869-4
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2023
• End date: August 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Mathematics - Applied Mathematics
• Agreement: University of Exeter
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Pedro da Silva Peixoto
• Grantee: Pedro da Silva Peixoto
• Principal researcher abroad: Georgios Efstathiou
• Institution abroad: University of Exeter, Exeter, England
• Host Institution: Instituto de Matemática e Estatística (IME). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/06176-0 - Numerical methods for a new generation of weather and climate models, AP.PFPMCG.JP2

Abstract

This project aims to bring together research teams from the University of Exeter and the University of São Paulo to facilitate further collaborative research in improving the representation of high-resolution dynamics in atmospheric models. At close to kilometre resolution scales, numerical atmospheric models start to better represent features once only modelled via subgrid scale turbulence. At this transition zone, frequently termed as the ``grey-zone'', numerical methods for the resolved dynamics strongly interact with the subgrid scale turbulence model in ways that are not yet well-understood. Initiating a close collaboration between the two teams will combine the expertise that is needed to understand and tackle the related issues, realising new methods within the unified numerics-turbulence framework. Such developments are of utmost importance for accurate prediction of high-impact weather events in sub-kilometric Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, as well as relevant for a better representation of local effects of climate variability. We are particularly targeting, in this project, applications in wind and solar energy assessment for renewable energy production, as well as extreme weather event prevention. (AU)