Analysis of Wind Regimes and Thermal Forcing in Canterbury Plains, New Zealand
Document information
| Author | LoG. McKendry |
| School | University of Canterbury |
| Major | Geography |
| Year of publication | 1985 |
| Place | Christchurch |
| Document type | thesis |
| Language | English |
| Number of pages | 411 |
| Format | |
| Size | 16.65 MB |
- Geography
- Wind Climates
- Meteorological Modelling
Summary
I. Introduction
The Analysis of Wind Regimes and Thermal Forcing in the Canterbury Plains provides a comprehensive overview of the climatic conditions affecting this region. The introduction outlines the rationale behind the study, emphasizing the significance of understanding local wind patterns and thermal influences. The document highlights the dynamic influences that shape the regional climate, including geographical features and seasonal variations. It sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the elements of regional wind climates, which are crucial for both academic research and practical applications in meteorology and environmental management.
1.1 Rationale
The rationale for this study is rooted in the need to comprehend the complex interactions between wind regimes and thermal forcing. Understanding these interactions is vital for predicting weather patterns and managing agricultural practices in the Canterbury region. The study aims to fill gaps in existing literature by providing empirical data and analysis that can inform future research and policy-making.
1.2 Concepts of Scale
The document discusses the concepts of scale in meteorological studies, emphasizing the importance of both local and regional perspectives. It explains how different scales can influence the interpretation of wind data and thermal effects. This section serves as a foundation for understanding the methodologies employed in the subsequent chapters.
II. The Study Area and Data Collection
The second section delves into the study area and the methodologies used for data collection. It provides a detailed description of the Canterbury Plains, including its physiography and climatic characteristics. The significance of accurate data collection is underscored, as it forms the backbone of the analysis presented in the thesis. The section outlines the various data sources utilized, including meteorological stations and field observations, which are essential for understanding the local wind regimes and thermal dynamics.
2.1 General Background
This subsection offers a comprehensive overview of the geographical and climatic context of the Canterbury Plains. It highlights the unique features of the region that contribute to its wind patterns, such as topography and proximity to the ocean. Understanding these factors is crucial for interpreting the data collected during the study.
2.2 Data Collection
The data collection process is meticulously detailed, emphasizing the importance of rigorous methodologies in obtaining reliable results. The section discusses the types of data collected, including wind speed, direction, and thermal measurements. It also addresses the challenges faced during data collection and the strategies employed to mitigate these issues.
III. Kinematic Windfield Analysis
The kinematic windfield analysis section presents a thorough examination of the wind regimes in the Canterbury Plains. It discusses the seasonal variations and diurnal patterns observed in wind speed and direction. The analysis reveals significant insights into the north-easterly circulation, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the local climate. This section is critical for understanding how wind patterns influence weather events and agricultural practices in the region.
3.1 Introduction
The introduction to this section outlines the objectives of the kinematic analysis, focusing on the need to understand the spatial and temporal variations in wind patterns. It sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the methodologies used in the analysis.
3.2 Previous Studies
A review of previous studies provides context for the current research. It highlights gaps in existing literature and the need for updated data and analysis. This subsection emphasizes the contribution of the current study to the broader field of meteorology.
IV. Local Scale Thermal Forcing
This section explores the local scale thermal forcing and its impact on wind patterns in the Canterbury Plains. It discusses the factors influencing sea breeze development and the land-sea thermal contrasts that affect local weather conditions. The analysis of thermal forcing is essential for understanding the interactions between temperature and wind, which have significant implications for agriculture and environmental management.
4.1 Introduction
The introduction to this section outlines the significance of thermal forcing in the context of local wind regimes. It emphasizes the need for a detailed understanding of how temperature variations influence wind patterns.
4.2 Background
This subsection provides a background on the nature of thermal forcing, discussing its mechanisms and effects. It highlights the importance of understanding these processes for predicting local weather patterns and their implications for various sectors.