This book focuses on the dynamics of clouds and of precipitating mesoscale meteorological systems. Clouds and precipitating mesoscale systems represent some of the most important and scientifically exciting weather systems in the world. These are the systems that produce torrential rains, severe winds including downburst and tornadoes, hail, thunder and lightning, and major snow storms. Forecasting such storms represents a major challenge since they are too small to be adequately resolved by conventional observing networks and numerical prediction models.

Clouds. Fundamental Concepts and Parameterizations. Fundamental Equations Governing Cloud Processes. On Averaging. The Parameterization of Modeling of Microphysical Processes in Clouds. Radiative Transfer in a Cloudy Atmosphere and Its Parameterization. Cumulus Parameterization and Diagnostic Studies of Convective Systems. The Dynamics of Clouds. Fogs and Stratocumulus Clouds. Cumulus Clouds. Cumulonimbus Clouds and Severe Convective Storms. Mesoscale Convective Systems. The Mesoscale Structure of Extratropical Cyclones and Middle and High Level Clouds. The Influence of Mountains on Airflow, Clouds, and Precipitation.