A numerical simulation of the Mei-Yu front and the associated low-level jet

Abstract

The Mei-Yu front is a quasi-stationary belt of heavy precipitation imbedded in the summer monsoon trough over East Asia. This work used a two dimensional frontogenesis model to study the Mei-Yu front, especially its associated low-level jet (LLJ) which often occurs during intense convection. Several numerical experiments were carried out to simulate the quasi-steady frontal structures in different environments. The results resemble many observed features, such as the stronger temperature and moisture gradients in the midlatitude fronts and the stronger horizontal shear and LLJ in the subtropical fronts. The LLJ is most conspicuous in the subtropical simulation when high humidity and surface fluxes are included. The results further suggest that the LLJ is developed through the Coriolis torque that is exerted by the low-level poleward branch of a "reversed Hadley cell" equatorward of the front. This thermally direct cell is different from the normal cross-frontal secondary circulation. Its development depends on the occurrence of intense convection.