Abstract:
High-resolution numerical models coupled with detailed cloud microphysical schemes are essential tools for in-depth investigation of hail cloud structure and formation mechanisms. Based on the dynamic framework of CMA-MESO 6.0 and its original double-moment cloud microphysical scheme, an explicit double-moment hail microphysical scheme is developed by incorporating more detailed hail physical processes. High-resolution numerical simulations are then conducted for two severe convective events: A multi-cell hailstorm in Jiangxi-Fujian on 22 March 2023 and a widespread severe wind and hail event in northeastern Chongqing on 24 March 2024. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the applicability of the newly developed scheme within CMA-MESO modeling system and to systematically analyze the dynamic, thermodynamic, and microphysical structural characteristics throughout the lifecycle of the hail clouds. Results indicate that CMA-MESO 6.0, when coupled with the new scheme, can reasonably reproduce the microphysical structure and its spatiotemporal evolution for both types of hail clouds, demonstrating explicit forecasting capability for hail mixing ratio and number concentration. The spatial distribution and temporal evolution of simulated rainfall and hail for both events are generally consistent with observations, despite some biases in reflectivity intensity exist, specifically an overestimation for Jiangxi-Fujian case and an underestimation for Chongqing case. The model successfully reproduces the developmental, mature, and dissipating stages of the multi-cell severe storm, elucidating the key dynamic-microphysical mechanisms, including the transport of supercooled water by the updraft, hail growth, and subsequent fallout. Microphysical analysis indicates that hail formation and evolution depend on the synergistic effects of supercooled liquid water content, ice-phase particle distribution, and vertical airflow, with 400-600 hPa layer identified as a critical region for hail particle generation and growth. Specifically, Jiangxi-Fujian case exhibits characteristics of a typical multi-cell severe storm, featuring deep, strong updrafts and abundant supercooled water. These conditions provide a favorable environment for hail growth, resulting in intense hailfall. In contrast, Chongqing case is characterized by weaker updrafts and a limited supply of supercooled water, leading to smaller hailstone size, a more dispersed spatial distribution, and hailfall being temporally concentrated and spatially widespread but of relatively lower intensity. These ressults provide a foundation for developing refined cloud microphysical parameterization schemes. Future efforts will focus on continued testing and optimization of the scheme by incorporating more observational data.