Impact of a Convectively Forced Gravity Wave Drag Parameterization in Global Data Assimilation and Prediction System (GDAPS)

A parameterization of gravity wave drag induced by cumulus convection (GWDC) proposed by Chun and Baik is implemented in the KMA operational global NWP model (GDAPS), and effects of the GWDC on the forecast for July 2005 by GDAPS are investigated. The forecast result is compared with NCEP final analyses data (FNL) and model's own analysis data. Cloud-top gravity wave stresses are concentrated in the tropical region, and the resultant forcing by the GWDC is strong in the tropical upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. Nevertheless, the effect of the GWDC is strong in the mid-to high latitudes of Southern Hemisphere and high latitudes of Northern Hemisphere. By examining the effect of the GWDC on the amplitude of the geopotential height perturbation with zonal wavenumbers 1-3, it is found that impact of the GWDC is extended to the high latitudes through the change of planetary wave activity, which is maximum in the winter hemisphere. The GWDC reduces the amplitude of zonal wavenumber 1 but increases wavenumber 2 in the winter hemisphere. This change alleviates model biases in the zonal wind not only in the lower stratosphere where the GWDC is imposed, but also in the whole troposphere, especially in the mid-to high latitudes of Southern Hemisphere. By examining root mean square error, it is found that the GWDC parameterization improves GDAPS forecast skill in the Southern Hemisphere before 7 days and partially in the Northern Hemisphere after about 5 days.