Westerlies
Extratropical cyclones and mid-latitude cyclones are the terms used to describe storms that move from west to east in the middle-latitudes pushed by the jet stream flow. These storms bring a mix of rain, snow, wind, and sometimes severe weather as they travel across the region.
Storms in the tropics, such as hurricanes, are typically characterized by warm ocean waters and a lack of temperature contrasts, leading to less variability in weather patterns. In contrast, storms in the middle latitudes, like mid-latitude cyclones, are influenced by stronger temperature gradients between air masses, resulting in more dynamic and variable weather systems. Additionally, tropical storms tend to be more organized and long-lived, while middle-latitude storms can develop rapidly and dissipate quickly.
Tropical storms, such as hurricanes, form over warm ocean waters and are characterized by a more organized structure, featuring a clearly defined eye and intense convection. They typically have a warm core and thrive in environments with low vertical wind shear. In contrast, storms in middle latitudes, like extratropical cyclones, often form along fronts and are influenced by cooler air masses, exhibiting a cold core. These middle-latitude storms can produce varied weather phenomena, including rain, snow, and severe thunderstorms, and are generally less organized than tropical storms.
Cold fronts and warm fronts in the middle latitudes are often associated with changes in weather conditions such as shifts in temperature, changes in wind direction, and precipitation. Cold fronts typically bring cooler air and the potential for storms, while warm fronts bring warmer air and often lead to longer periods of rain or drizzle.
Hurricanes are tropical weather systems while significant tornadoes generally occur in the temperate latitudes. The wind currents that move storms in the tropics are generally weaker than those that move storms in the temperate latitudes.
In Australia, we usually get storms from the west or southwest direction. I dont know why, but it is very rare for them to come from any other direction, and if they do it is usually from the east or south east direction
Storms and most likely severe storms.
Storms just describe a specific weather event.
The prevailing winds blow from west to east at these latitudes
The temperature differences between low and high latitudes are primarily due to variations in the angle of sunlight. At low latitudes, near the equator, sunlight is more direct and concentrated, leading to higher temperatures. In contrast, at high latitudes, sunlight is more spread out and less intense, resulting in cooler temperatures.
large thunder storms and tornadoes form
False. Most collisions between air masses occur in the polar and tropical regions, where there are significant temperature differences. These clashes of air masses can lead to the formation of storms and severe weather.