Abstract
High-resolution simulations on the vertical transport of dust in a fair-weather condition over desert regions are performed with a cloud-resolving modeling approach. Basic processes relevant to the dust transport are examined by focusing on the role of boundary-layer and cloud convection. Although the model settings are simplified, the simulation well reproduces the diurnal variability of fair-weather convective boundary layer and cloud development observed over a Chinese desert. Dry convective motion within the boundary layer and moist convection above the boundary layer play a significant role in regulating the vertical mixing and transport of dust in the atmosphere, and in enhancing the surface winds and thus the dust emission by the downward transport of high momentum in upper levels. The present modeling framework is useful in understanding the small-scale effects on the vertical dust transport associated with boundary-layer convection and cloud convection in a fair-weather environment.
