Mathematical modelling of katabatic winds over Schirmacher region,East Antarctica

Abstract

A one-dimensional mathematical model for flow of katabatic winds over Schirmacher region of East Antarctica has been developed. The model is based on momentum and sensible heat transport to the ice slope surface under calm conditions. A relationship of potential air temperature with the height and elevation of the reference state is suggested and used in the model. The model parameters were estimated using the measurements of surface based meteorological parameters and high resolution maps of pressure contours. The wind velocities have been computed using the model on actual terrain slope around 130º in which direction maximum katabatic flow moves towards the periphery of the continent , the ratio of mean bulk coefficients (CH/CM) and over large variations in slope angle (⍺), potential temperature difference between air parcel and slope surface (θ), and slope length (l). The results suggest that the inclination angle or terrain slope and the distance at which inversion forms, control the speed of katabatic winds. At the same time, the direction of katabatic wind is controlled by the slope of the icy terrain.