For how long should what data be assimilated for mesoscale forecasting and why? Part I: On the propagation of initial condition errors from one variable to another

In particular, it tries to tie incomplete data with model constraints to detect and correct for initial condition errors. This is possible only if initial condition errors leave their signature on the data assimilated and if the model is capable of faithfully reproducing such signatures.

Using simulations of the evolution of convective storms in the Great Plains over an active 6-day period, the propagation of initial condition errors to other variables as well as their effect on the accuracy of the forecasts were investigated. Increasing the assimilation time window boosts the ability of assimilation systems to detect a variety of initial condition errors; however, limits to the predictability of convective events impose a maximum assimilation period that is a function of the type of measurements assimilated as well as of the type of errors one tries to correct for.