PM November 9th, 2010 Weather Forecast Data

6pm November 9th 2010weather Forecast Datasfc Pres Obs

Analyze the provided weather data and precipitation summary from November 9th, 2010, focusing on the atmospheric conditions, snowfall patterns, and precipitation distribution throughout the night. Discuss the dynamics of frontal precipitation decline, lake effect snow formation and dissipation, and the influence of wind patterns on snowfall distribution. Incorporate concepts from weather forecasting, mesoscale meteorology, and lake-effect snow mechanisms to explain the observed phenomena comprehensively.

Paper For Above instruction

On November 9th, 2010, a series of atmospheric observations and weather phenomena took place that exemplify the complex interactions between frontal systems, orographic influences, and local lake effects. Understanding these processes requires an examination of the synoptic and mesoscale atmospheric conditions, the physical mechanisms driving lake-effect snow, and the impact of wind patterns on the distribution of snowfall across the region.

Introduction

Weather forecasting and analysis often involve synthesizing a vast array of observational data, including surface pressure, upper-air heights and winds, and visual imagery such as radar. On the evening of November 9th, 2010, multiple observational datasets indicated a dynamic atmospheric environment characterized by a fading frontal system, evolving lake-effect snow bands, and localized heavy snowfall events. These phenomena were driven primarily by the interactions between atmospheric moisture, temperature gradients, wind flow, and the Great Salt Lake’s influence on local weather patterns.

Frontal System and Precipitation Trends

Initially, around 6 pm, a frontal precipitation system was present, with rain and snow tapering off by 6:30 pm. This decline aligned with the passage of a cold front or the weakening of the warm, moist air mass responsible for the initial precipitation. By 7 pm, residual precipitation manifested as showers, with some lingering snowfall confined to mountainous regions, indicative of orographic enhancement. The weakening of the frontal boundary diminished the upward motion and lifting mechanisms necessary to sustain widespread precipitation, resulting in the gradual tapering of the storm activity.

Upper-Air Conditions and Wind Profiles

Analysis of 700 mb and 500 mb heights and wind data reveals significant factors influencing the distribution of snowfall. At 6 pm, upper-level ridges and troughs influenced the vertical stability and moisture transport. The 700 mb heights showed a pattern conducive to moist, unstable conditions, while the 500 mb winds likely exhibited a westerly component, facilitating the movement of weather systems across the region. As the night progressed, changing wind directions at these levels contributed to the migration of lake-effect snow bands from the lake towards inland areas like Ogden.

Lake Effect Snow Dynamics

Lake-effect snow formation is primarily driven by cold, unstable air passing over warm lake waters, leading to convection and heavy snowfall downwind. During the night, a lake effect snow band developed on the north end of the Tooele valley at around 11 pm, producing brief but intense snowfall. The snow band dissipated quickly due to shifts in wind direction and the loss of instability at the lake surface.

Between 3 am and 5 am, snow began falling over the Great Salt Lake, with the low wind speeds limiting the transport of snow into adjacent valleys and mountain regions. The light winds suppressed horizontal snow transport, causing the snow to remain concentrated over the lake itself. Later, from 6 am to 8 am, a stronger westerly wind setup moved the snow band toward Ogden, resulting in episodes of heavy snowfall with accumulations of 3-5 inches. This movement underscores the critical role of wind direction and speed in modulating the spatial distribution of lake-effect snow.

Precipitation Distribution and Valley Impact

Throughout the night, the Salt Lake Valley received only trace amounts of snow, despite the intense snow showers over the lake and mountainous areas. The valley’s relatively flat terrain and lower elevation reduce the likelihood of accumulating significant snowfall during lake-effect events, especially under light wind conditions. The imagery and observations highlight how localized phenomena—such as wind direction and temperature gradients—dictate where snowfall intensifies and accumulates.

Conclusion

The November 9th, 2010, weather phenomena illustrate the complex interplay of frontal systems, upper-air dynamics, and lake-effect processes. The fading of the frontal precipitation was followed by localized, intense lake-effect snow caused by cold air flowing over warm lake waters, modulated significantly by wind patterns. Such detailed analysis underscores the importance of integrating surface, upper-air, and radar data to accurately forecast and understand mesoscale weather phenomena. Understanding these processes is crucial for accurate weather prediction, hazard assessment, and water resource management in regions influenced by lake-effect snow.

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