C-POOL: A scheme for modelling convective cold pools in the Met Office Unified Model.

A new parametrization scheme representing the lifecycle and effects of convective cold pools (C-POOL) is presented. The scheme comprises a column-crossing prognostic model of the initiation by downdraughts, interaction and decay of cold pools, based upon approximations taken from similarity modelling of gravity currents. The prognostic variables are drawn upon to feed back into the convection parametrization scheme. These feedbacks affect the convective diagnosis, initiation from the boundary layer, parcel ascent and entrainment. Tests of the model show that it improves representation of the diurnal cycle of tropical rainfall, previously well-known as a weakness of parametrized convection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]