Internal boundary layer structure under sea-breeze conditions in Hong Kong

A three-dimensional atmospheric model is used for modelling the airflow pattern and internal boundary layer (IBL) development over the Hong Kong region that comprises hilly terrain and complex coastline. Observations used to verify the model are drawn from 32 meteorological stations and a ground-based lidar system. It is found that the modelled results are in good agreement with the observed airflow field and IBL development. Due to the interaction of complex terrain and sea-breeze circulations, several confluence zones of wind fields are found in different locations, depending on the background wind velocity and the differential-heating rate between land and sea. Subsequently, these kinds of wind field patterns give rise to a three-dimensional dome-shaped IBL distribution that forms an impediment to air-pollutant dispersion outside of the layer.