Momentum Drag Effect Over Urbanized Areas in the ACM2 PBL Component of the WRF model

Mesoscale meteorology models, such as the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, typically use land use categorization data to specify surface characteristics by grid cells. In commonly used land use schemes, such as the 24‐class U.S. Geological Survey land use classification system or the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer landcover product, cities are placed in single urban categories that are characterized by a high roughness length. Monin‐Obunkov similarity theory is commonly used to simulate boundary layer dynamics based on surface energy and momentum fluxes which resulted in an overprediction of wind speed in weather forecasts for urban areas. It is thus crucial to include the momentum drag effects of the buildings, including walls and roofs, in the prediction models. The WRF model contains several momentum flux parameterizations, including the single‐layer urban canopy model, building effect parameterization, and building energy model. The building energy model and building effect parameterization schemes are limited to the Mellor‐Yamada‐Janjic or BouLac planetary boundary layer models and are computationally costly. In this study, a realistic multilayer urban approach is introduced into the Asymmetric Convective Model version 2 planetary boundary layer component of the WRF model. Sensitivity tests are applied to a range of urban morphological parameters in idealized simulations, and the impact of building morphology on atmospheric conditions is examined. The modified Asymmetric Convective Model version 2 is implemented in two real cases in the forecast mode, resulting in significant improvements in wind speed prediction. Key Points The momentum drag effect is introduced into the ACM2 model to account for the momentum deficit caused by urban morphology Urban canopy theory is strengthened, and its effects on urban areas are analyzed in idealized simulations Improvements in wind speed prediction, which is essential for air quality assessment over urban areas, are demonstrated in a real case study