Impact of Sedimentation of Cloud Ice on Cloud-Top Height and Precipitation Intensity of Precipitation Systems Simulated by a Cloud-Resolving Model

This study uses a cloud resolving model to examine the impact of sedimentation of cloud ice on the cloud top height and the precipitation intensity of typical precipitation systems in East Asia, including a typhoon, snow clouds over the Sea of Japan, and the Baiu front. The fall velocity of cloud ice is assumed to be 0.1 m s(-1). When the sedimentation process of cloud ice is included in the model, the horizontal distribution and frequency of the cloud top height show significantly better agreement with satellite observations. Furthermore, cloud ice with sedimentation concentrates at a lower level than that without sedimentation, and converts to snow and graupel by microphysical growth processes. More solid water substances located in the thin layer above the 0 degrees C level contribute to intensification of precipitation at the surface by several percent, especially in the convective area.