Summary
¶Currently available computer power allows to run operational numerical weather prediction models at resolutions higher than 10 km. The aim of such high resolution modeling is the prediction of local weather, including orographically induced winds and local precipitation patterns. In this range the hydrostatic approximation is no longer valid and nonhydrostatic models have to be used instead. For several decades these models have been developed for research purposes only, but operational application is now reality. In this paper, the numerical methods used in current nonhydrostatic forecast models will be reviewed and some promising techniques in this field will be discussed. Special attention is given to aspects such as the choice of the vertical coordinate, the efficiency of algebraic solvers for semi-implicit time discretizations, and accurate and non-oscillatory advection schemes.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received July 6, 2001; revision October 12, 2001
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Steppeler, J., Hess, R., Schättler, U. et al. Review of numerical methods for nonhydrostatic weather prediction models. Meteorol Atmos Phys 82, 287–301 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00703-001-0593-8
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00703-001-0593-8