Validation of ECMWF global forecast model parameters using GLAS atmospheric channel measurements

Satellite lidar (LIght Detection And Ranging) data from GLAS is used to ascertain the performance of the European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasts model predictions of cloud fraction, cloud vertical distribution, and boundary layer height. Results show that the model is reasonably accurate for low and middle clouds, but often misses the location and amount of high cirrus clouds. The model tends to overestimate high cloud fraction and this error grows with forecast length. The GLAS‐derived boundary layer height over the oceans is generally 200–400 m higher than the model predictions, but small‐scale and global patterns of PBL height show similar features.