Chapter 5.5.1 Mesoscale structure and microphysical characteristics
Most precipitation occurring with extratropical cyclonic storms are concentrated in mesoscale rainbands (~horizontal scale 103-104 km2)
Rainband formation (Figure 5.34 b)
- moist, warm air down low streams up and over warm front
- confined by mid-level flow of dry subsiding air
- convective instability (qe decreases with height)
- between bands, low qe air (dry) erodes clouds