Doubt in HGT from model

[linlu9876]

Hi
The HGT output from WRF model is terrain height. Is it above ground height (AGL)?
Can you also please clarify how is it different from Model Height for Mass Grid (AGL)


Thank you
Lin

 

[Ming Chen]

HGT is terrain height above the sea level.
By model height, I suppose you mean the geopotential height of model levels. Please let me know if I am wrong. This variable approximates the actual height above the sea level.

 

[mirabelle]

HGT is terrain height above the sea level.
By model height, I suppose you mean the geopotential height of model levels. Please let me know if I am wrong. This variable approximates the actual height above the sea level.

Does half model height change over time？
What is the formula for calculating alf model height ？

 

[Ming Chen]

Yes geopotential height at model levels change with time.
For the calculation of PH, please take a look at the document:

https://www2.mmm.ucar.edu/wrf/users/docs/technote/v4_technote.pdf