Mid-latitude synoptic scale weather systems
Today we will discuss the mid-latitude synoptic scale weather system. These systems can be thought of as engines that help to mix together polar and tropical air masses. They are wavelike disturbances on the synoptic scale and they, in and of themselves, are very interesting to study.
Development
MLSSWS first develop as areas of low pressure. There is a presusre gradient force that develops as air rushes in toward the center of the low. The faster this air moves, the more influence the Coriolis Force will have on it. Thus a circulation establishes around the low.
Out ahead of the low, the counterclockwise flow around the low circulates warm air northward. Behind the low, the flow circulates cold air southward. At the interface between advancing air masses being pulled northward (warm air) and southward (cold air), fronts develop.
Satellite images of mid-latitude synoptic scale weather systems
These systems take on a classic "comma-shaped" configuration when viewed on a satellite picture. See the example below.
Warm sector
The area between the warm front and the cold front of a mid-latitude synoptic scale weather system is called the warm sector. Here, the atmosphere is typically unstable and cumulus convection is often observed.
