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Propagating Mountain Wave Parameters & Notes
- 700mb winds ≥ 20kts
- 700mb winds are perpendicular to mountain range
- 500-700mb wind ratio ≤ 1.6
- Relatively stable atmosphere (but not too stable)
- Strong negative 700mb Vertical Velocities (downslope) on lee side of mountain range
Rotor Indicators
- FMG/GTF/BZN areas: mountain top winds > 40kts
- OAL/BTY/CZI/CYS/DEN/
PUB/ALS areas: 500-700mb ratios > 1.6
- BOY/CIM areas: none
NOTE: Look for a strong 500mb jet, which may trap the mountain wave. The lack of a fast-moving trough or the lack of a building ridge may also indicate a decreased risk of mountain wave development at flight level.
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| Mountain Wave Intensity |
| Wave Intensity |
Vertical Speed |
IAS Change |
| Light |
≤ 200 fpm |
+/- 10kts |
| Lgt/Mod |
201-400 fpm |
+/- 15kts |
| Moderate |
401-550 fpm |
+/- 20kts |
| Mod/Strong |
551-650 fpm |
+/- 25kts |
| Strong |
> 650 fpm |
> +/- 25kts |
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| Mountain Wave Slide Show |
| This slide show was presented at the 2007 Fall General Refresher and shows a number of senarios known for producing mountain waves in the western U.S. |
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