A SYNTHESIS OF INTERPRETATIONS OF EXTRATROPICAL VORTEX PATTERNS AS SEEN BY TIROS

Abstract

An attempt is made to integrate the existing knowledge, from some 28 published sources, with regard to the interpretation of satellite observed cloud vortex patterns. It is found that the model proposed by Boucher and Newcomb is generally valid, although certain elaborations seem reasonable. Characteristies of cloud patterns indicative of troughs rather than Closed Lows have been determined by Rogers. It is found that information concerning pressure center positions, pressure departures from normal, future system momement, frontal positions, air mass conditions, surface and upper-level winds, and precipitation can often be deduced from the cloud patterns visible in the satellite pictures.