Gunnar Noer (MetNo): Polar Lows – Arctic Hurricanes
Competency Framework
WMO Satellite Skills
Application
Description
Gunnar Noer explains and showcases the nature of polar lows.
Content
Polar lows are small but fairly intense low pressure systems that form in the Arctic marine regions during the winter season. They form in unstable air masses associated with cold air outbreaks from the Arctic ice cap. Polar Lows give rise to gale or storm force winds which, in combination with heavy snowfall, cause widespread traffic disruptions. In recent years, polar lows have caused several fatal incidents with snow avalanches. This lecture focuses on the key processes and the methodology for forecasting polar lows.