Mumbai has been experiencing a significant rise in temperature, and meteorologists attribute this to the presence of an anticyclone over the sea. While cyclones bring strong winds and rainfall, anticyclones create the opposite effect—leading to warm, dry, and stable weather conditions. Understanding the role of anticyclones is essential for climate studies, weather prediction, and disaster management.
What is an Anticyclone?
An anticyclone is a high-pressure system where air sinks and diverges outward, in contrast to a cyclone, which involves rising air and low pressure.
It is associated with clear skies, light winds, and stable weather conditions.
Unlike cyclones, which can develop rapidly, anticyclones often persist for days or even weeks, affecting local weather patterns significantly.
Characteristics of an Anticyclone
Pressure and Wind
High-pressure system: Air sinks downward, creating a stable atmospheric condition.
Weak pressure gradient: Unlike cyclones, which have steep pressure differences causing strong winds, anticyclones have a gradual pressure change, resulting in gentle winds.
Weather Conditions
Leads to warm and dry weather as the sinking air compresses and warms up.
Often brings clear skies and calm conditions, reducing chances of precipitation.
Can contribute to heatwaves, as seen in parts of India.
Wind Circulation
Northern Hemisphere: Winds circulate clockwise around an anticyclone.
Southern Hemisphere: Winds move in an anticlockwise direction.
Impact of Anticyclones
Heatwaves in India
A mid-tropospheric anticyclone plays a major role in heatwave conditions over India.
It prevents cloud formation and rainfall, intensifying temperature rise in affected regions.
Air Pollution and Fog
In winter, anticyclones can trap pollutants, leading to smog and poor air quality in cities like Delhi.
The lack of strong winds causes stagnant air, worsening pollution-related health issues.
Cyclone Suppression
High-pressure systems inhibit cyclone formation, making anticyclones crucial in tropical weather systems.
Way Forward
Improved Weather Forecasting: Advanced satellite monitoring can help track anticyclones and mitigate their impact.
Urban Planning and Heatwave Management: Developing heat-resistant infrastructure and increasing green cover can reduce urban heat stress.
Air Quality Control Measures: Better pollution management strategies can help counter the adverse effects of stagnant air during anticyclonic conditions.
UPSC Prelims Question
Q: Consider the following statements regarding anticyclones:
An anticyclone is a low-pressure system where air rises and converges at the center.
It is associated with strong winds and heavy rainfall.
In the Northern Hemisphere, winds circulate clockwise around an anticyclone.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only
UPSC Mains Question
Q. Anticyclones play a crucial role in shaping regional climate conditions, influencing phenomena like heatwaves and air pollution. Discuss their impact on India’s weather patterns and suggest mitigation measures.
(GS Paper 1 – Geography)
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