Case studies of tropical-extratropical air mass interactions over South America are presented in this module. Synoptic features associated with cold air intrusion into tropical latitudes and the incursion of humid, tropical air masses into midlatitudes are identified. Conceptual models illustrate the synoptic environments and the role of the Andes in the meridional movement of air masses. Forecast challenges are presented for different periods of each case. Finally, the weather impacts associated with these contrasting air-mass incursions are explored.
Identify major dynamical features that favor equatorward movement of extratropical air
Forecast movement of the extratropical air mass and cold front
Describe expected impact of the extratropical air intrusion
For tropical air mass intrusion
Identify air mass boundaries over South America
Identify major dynamical features that favor poleward movement of tropical air
Forecast movement of tropical air mass
Describe expected impact of tropical air intrusion
South American weather, Andes Mountains, cold surge, tropical air mass incursion, cold air intrusion, cold air incursion, South American Low Level Jet, SALLJ, South American Convergence Zone, SACZ, heavy rainfall in South America, severe weather in South America, South America MCS, South America cold front, migratory high, South Atlantic Subtropical High
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