Download 6-9 miles)above the earth`s surface

How does the jet stream and
water currents influence weather
and climate?
Temperature
•
The jet stream is a current of fast
moving air found in the upper
levels of the atmosphere. This
rapid current is typically thousands
of miles long, a few hundred miles
wide, and only a few miles thick. Jet
streams are usually found
somewhere between 6-9
miles)above the earth's surface.
The position of this upper-level jet
stream denotes the location of the
strongest SURFACE temperature
contrast (as in the diagram). During
the winter months, Arctic and
tropical air masses create a
stronger surface temperature
contrast resulting in a strong jet
stream. However, during the
summer months, when the surface
temperature variation is less
dramatic, the winds of the jet are
weaker.
Wind Speed and Direction
The winds in the jet stream not only steer
storms, but also help determine the locations
of areas of high and low air pressure at the
Earth's surface. Winds begin with differences
in air pressures. Pressure that's higher at one
place than another sets up a force pushing
from the high toward the low pressure.
The greater the difference in pressures, the
stronger the force. The distance between the
area of high pressure and the area of low
pressure also determines how fast the moving
air is accelerated.
How do ocean currents affect
weather?
•
•
Ocean Currents- any continuous flow of water across a broad path in the
ocean
-the current can be in any direction, but is usually horizontal
Warmer water evaporates and forms clouds more easily than cold water. So,
when a warm current travels father north than normally, it increases the
chance of more rain and/ or snow.