The Earth’s planetary wind system is mainly driven by the unequal heating of the Earth’s surface by the Sun. The Sun’s rays are more direct in the tropical regions, so these areas receive greater heating. Towards the poles, the rays reach the surface at a much lower angle and the […]
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Understanding pressure gradients, isobars, Coriolis force and wind direction is essential for every navigator. A weather chart may show only a few lines and pressure values, but those lines provide valuable information about where the wind will come from, how strong it may be, and how pressure systems influence the […]
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Understanding atmospheric pressure is one of the fundamental skills required for interpreting weather charts and anticipating changes in weather at sea. Pressure patterns provide valuable clues about wind strength, weather systems and developing conditions. 1. ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air above […]
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Thunderstorms are among the most powerful and rapidly changing weather phenomena encountered at sea. For mariners, the main concern is not only the lightning and thunder, but the sudden changes in wind, visibility, precipitation and atmospheric conditions that can accompany a storm. A thunderstorm may develop rapidly and can create […]
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Understanding how air behaves as it rises and sinks is one of the foundations of meteorology. These simple atmospheric processes determine cloud formation, rainfall, fog, thunderstorms, visibility, and overall weather conditions that mariners encounter at sea. A clear understanding of adiabatic processes also helps officers interpret weather charts and make […]
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