Mid-Latitude Weather Systems

This would be a good supplement to Bluestein's two volume text on Synoptic-Dynamic Meteorology (Synoptic-Dynamic Meteorology in Midlatitudes: Volume II: Observations and Theory of Weather Systems, Synoptic-Dynamic Meteorology in Midlatitudes: Principles of Kinematics and Dynamics, Vol. 1. Some knowledge of dynamics is assumed, but is a good reference for meteorologists.

This book is superior to most if not all meteorology texts in that it provides a proper balance between theory and reality with respect to synoptic and meso alpha scale weather systems. Numerous relevant equations are provided concerning such concepts as thermodynamics, vorticity, vertical motion, and cyclogenesis with explanations as to how these elements, kinematic and dynamic processes drive atmospheric weather systems. His descriptions and explanations of cyclogenesis are especially well done. Carlson also provides numerous real-world examples to explain and illustrate his concepts. And in contrast to other texts of this type, he does not overelaborate on tedious derivations which usually do not contribute to the readers understanding of atmospheric phenomena. Be advised though this book is appropriate for persons with at least 2 years of formal meteorology education and a class in differential equations. However this would be an excellent book for an Atmospheric Dynamics or Advanced Synoptic Meteorology class. And it would be extremely relevant for most professional meteorologists, especially those involved with forecasting and operational research.

Carlson has written a profound book on synoptic systems. Unlike many meteorology texts, this book stresses physical understanding of synoptic systems through practical and lucid mathematical treatment. The physical insight Carlson provides so eloquently makes this an essential read for every student taking synoptic lab. Carlson explains abstruse topics (thermal vorticity for example) in a lucid and cogent manner. There are numerous case studies which are covered in depth and flow perfectly with the points Carlson wants to convey. The book does assume the reader has atleast a fundamental understanding of dynamics and thermo. I would consider this book to be a perfect supplement to Bluestein's Vol I, Chapter 5, which is a rigorous mathematical treatment of QG theory. It would also serve well as an alternative view of synoptic systems to Bluestein's Vol II since the way they approach topics are considerably different. This book is essential reading for the student and the professional in the field. I would consider this to be the best book I have ever read on the subject despite a few obvious errors. Below are a listing of the chapters in the book: 1. Introduction and mathematical definitions 2. Vorticity and vertical motion 3. The vorticity and thermodynamic equation 4. QG forcing of vertical motions and surface pressure tendency 5. QG energetics 6. Evolution and motion of mid-tropospheric waves: Barotropic viewpoint 7. Simple dynamic models of wave/cyclone Development: Baroclinic Viewpoint 8. Alternative expressions for vertical motion and divergence 9. Some additional dynamic aspects of the baroclinic wave/cyclone. Effects of friction, terrain, and diabatic heating 10. The evolution of cyclones 11. Evolution of the wave/cyclone during cyclogenesis 12. Optimum wavelength and growth rate of baroclinic waves 13. Airflow through mid-latitude synoptic-scale disturbances 14. Aegeostrophic and the dynamics of fronts 15. Upper tropospheric fronts and jet streaks 16. Mid-tropospheric fronts, elevated mixed layers and the severe storm environment