The Role of Katabatic Winds on the Antarctic Surface Wind Regime

Abstract

Abstract Antarctica is known for its strong and persistent surface winds that are directed along topographic pathways. Surface winds are especially strong during the winter period. The high directional constancy of the wind and the close relationship of the wind direction to the underlying terrain can be interpreted as evidence of katabatic wind activity. Observations show that the directional constancy of the Antarctic surface wind displays little seasonal variation. Summertime winds cannot be expected to contain a significant katabatic component, owing to enhanced solar heating of the ice slopes. Observations also show that the coastal environs are subjected to wide variation in atmospheric pressure associated with frequent cyclone activity. The robust unidirectional nature of the Antarctic surface wind throughout the year implies that significant topographic influences other than those from katabatic forcing must be acting. Idealized numerical simulations have been performed to illustrate the potential...