Case: 27 June 2018

Summary

Complex multi-layer cloud deck event that transitioned to a single-layer stratocumulus deck

Description

This was a complex stratocumulus cloud event with multiple (2 to 3 separate levels) closed cloud layers, precipitating decks at various times, and combinations of these characteristics throughout the earlier stages of this event. Boundary-layer winds were light and westerly, though shifted northerly as the event progressed. The cloud field became less complex after midday and transitioned to a closed single-layer (cloud echo top heights approximately 1.5–2.0 km AGL) and precipitating deck after 15 UTC.

Available assets

Standard ARM profiling assets, SEVIRI, SACR

Critical period: 16:00–20:00

Single-layer closed stratocumulus deck

True-color MODIS Aqua — Figure 57 True-color afternoon MODIS Aqua image with overlaid LES domains. The image area corresponds to the 5° region sampled for the larger forcing option. The yellow and orange boxes correspond to the sizes of the 25 km and 102 km LES domains, respectively.