Types of Fronts and Air Masses, Tornadoes, and Severe Weather Alerts

Flashcards covering the types of fronts, air masses, tornadoes, and severe weather alerts.

Cold Front

A cold air mass pushes under a warm air mass, causing the warm air to rise quickly, leading to heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds.

Warm Front

A warm air mass slides over a retreating cold air mass, resulting in steady, light rain or drizzle followed by clearer skies.

Stationary Front

A situation where a cold front and a warm front meet but neither moves significantly, leading to prolonged cloudy skies and light precipitation.

Occluded Front

A cold front overtakes a warm front, lifting the warm air off the ground, which can produce heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Continental Polar (cP)

A cold and dry air mass formed over land in high latitudes such as Canada.

Maritime Polar (mP)

A cool and moist air mass formed over cold ocean waters.

Continental Tropical (cT)

A hot and dry air mass formed over deserts and dry regions.

Maritime Tropical (mT)

A warm and humid air mass formed over warm ocean waters.

Severe Weather Watch

A notification indicating that conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop; it advises people to be ready.

Severe Weather Warning

A notification indicating that severe weather is occurring or is about to happen; it advises immediate action.

Tornado Alley

The Midwest region of the United States where very different air masses collide, creating conditions for frequent tornado activity.