Accurate determination of wind fields is a prerequisite for successful air quality modeling. Thus, there is an increasing demand for objective techniques for analyzing and predicting wind distribution, particularly over rugged terrain, where the wind patterns are not only more complex, but also more difficult to characterize experimentally. This report describes the development of a three-dimensional wind model for rugged terrain based on mass continuity. The model is composed of several horizontal layers of variable thicknesses. For each layer, a Poisson equation is written with the wind convergence as the forcing function. Many types of wind perturbations over rugged terrain are considered in this model, including diversion of the flow due to topographical effects, modification of wind profiles due to boundary layer frictional effects, convergence of the flow due to urban heat island effects, and mountain and valley winds due to thermal effects. Wind data collected during a comprehensive field measurement program at Phoenix, Arizona, were used to test the model.

"October 1979." Includes bibliographical references (pages 105-108). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Contract No. Contract Number: 68-02-2446.