An Experiment in Numerical Prediction with two Non-Geostrophic Barotropic Models

Abstract

The result of a test with two simple non-geostrophic barotropic models are discussed. One of these models is based on ideas presented in a previous article (Charash 1957).

The forecasts obtained are found to differ significantly from forecasts obtained with the quasi-geostrophic model. Both non-geostrophic models appear to be free from one major weakness of the non-geostrophic model, i.e. the hypertrophy of anticyclones.

It is suggested that the disappointing forecasting performance of baroclinic models hitherto to a considerable degree springs from a similar weakness as exposed here in the quasi-geostrophic barotropic model.