Convective cloud features in typical synoptic environments: At the leading edge of frontal cloud bands
Competency Framework
WMO Satellite Skills
Application
Description
A typical location for the development of Cbs and Mesoscale Convective Systems is at the leading edge of frontal cloud bands.
Content
Mesoscale Convective Systems frequently develop at the leading edge of frontal cloud bands. This is most likely the situation where there is a specific vertical distribution of air mass and conveyor belts: a warm conveyor belt at low levels in front of the front and a dry intrusion in the layers above. Such a situation develops when a jet streak crosses the front; dry air on the cyclonic side of the jet axis overruns the frontal cloud band and reaches its leading edge. Whilst the relative streams of the dry intrusion are sinking behind the frontal cloud band, they change to rising during the crossing of the front.