Analysis of a Great Basin Cyclone and Attendant Mesoscale Features

The synoptic and mesoscale evolution of a Great Basin cyclone and its attendant mesoscale features are described using high resolution surface observations provided by MesoWest, a collection of observing networks located over the western United States. Specific aspects of the event that are examined in detail include: (1) the distortion of the cold front over the Sierra Nevada, (2) the evolution of the cold front and several mesoscale circulation centers over northern Utah, (3) the evolution and distortion of the cold front over southern and central Idaho, and (4) the development of persistent troughing and a Snake River Plain convergence zone over southern Idaho. Possible dynamical mechanisms for the evolution of the observed mesoscale features are discussed, as well as issues related to surface analysis in regions of complex terrain.Air Force Inst of Tech Wright-Patterson AFB OH is the author of 'Analysis of a Great Basin Cyclone and Attendant Mesoscale Features', published 2000 under ISBN 9781423536925 and ISBN 1423536924.