Non-Convective High Winds Associated with Extratropical Cyclones

Abstract

Non-convective high winds are a damaging and potentially life-threatening weather phenomenon that occurs in the absence of thunderstorms, tornadoes and tropical cyclones. The vast majority of non-convective high wind events develop in association with extratropical cyclones in mid-latitude regions. Interest in non-convective high winds is growing due to their societal impact, gaps in the scientific understanding of the triggering mechanisms for these events, and possible future changes in their frequency and intensity caused by climate change. In this article, non-convective high winds are examined first in terms of their historical and cultural significance and climatological characteristics. Then, four possible mechanisms for the development of non-convective high winds in extratropical cyclones are discussed and critiqued: topography; the isallobaric wind; tropopause folds associated with stratospheric intrusions and dry slots; and sting jets associated with marine frontal cyclones. Evidence for past and future trends in non-convective high wind event frequency and intensity is also briefly examined. New avenues for future work in this emerging area of research are suggested that unite applied and basic research as well as climatological and case-study perspectives.