Climatology of cyclones with southern origin in northern Europe during 1948–2010

Abstract

An analysis of spatio-temporal characteristics of southern cyclones in Northern Europe during the period 1948–2010 is presented. In this study, southern cyclones were defined as lows formed south of 50° N, east of the 0° meridian and west of 60° E, which crossed 55° N on their trajectory. All these cyclones obtained from the database of cyclones were considered to affect weather conditions in Northern Europe. The low-pressure systems were analyzed in terms of their frequency, duration and sea-level pressure. Long-term changes in these characteristics were detected. The largest number of the southern cyclones has formed over Northern Italy and its surrounding areas. Most of these low-pressure systems headed to the eastern part of Northern Europe. They have had lower air pressure than the cyclones, which have moved towards the western part of Northern Europe. Southern cyclones had lower air pressure, and they last longer in average than all cyclones, which have formed in same regions over Southern Europe. Minimum air pressure of the deepest southern cyclones has decreased during the 63 years; thus, they have become more intense. Mean duration of southern cyclones has decreased in summer.