Some Characteristics of Strong Wind Periods in Coastal East Antarctica

Abstract

The intensity and duration of strong wind events at three Australian stations in East Antarctica are discussed using four years of records. The longer term events are examined in relation to the pressure, temperature, wind speed and direction, and weather fluctuations occurring during the periods. The mean event differs little in intensity between the three stations, but at the station which experiences high frequencies of katabatic winds, the events show a slight tendency to longer life. A characteristic temperature change is apparent at all the stations, differing between the colder and the warmer seasons. Some inferences are made regarding the cause of observed variations in some elements both seasonally at all stations and between individual locations. Possible features of the general circulation of the Southern Hemisphere which may be active in producing the observed frequency distribution of strong winds are also outlined.