Gepubliceerd op 15 maart 2024
The katabatic winds in Antarctica are among the most remarkable meteorological phenomena on our planet. These winds are a result of gravity pulling denser air downwards towards lower density air. Katabatic winds can reach astonishing speeds, sometimes blowing at the speed of a hurricane. These winds shape the landscape of some regions of Antarctica by decreasing air humidity and influencing the distribution of ice and snow.
This image was acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 6 March. It shows sea ice shaped by katabatic winds near Inexpressive Island in the Terra Nova Bay, in Antarctica.
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Copernicus data informs studies of katabatic winds, which provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of the Earth's atmosphere and our planet's climate systems.
Source:
Copernicus. (2024, March 14). Wind-shaped Sea Ice in Antarctica. Image of the Day.