What Is Continental Arctic?
The coldest air mass, formed over snowy land near the Arctic in winter. It brings bitter cold outbreaks. In technical terms: An air mass (cA) originating over high-latitude snow- and ice-covered continents, especially in winter, with extremely low temperatures, very low specific humidity, and a strong surface-based inversion; often shallow, so it can pool against terrain.
Also called: cA, Arctic Air
Continental Arctic In Plain English
The coldest air mass, formed over snowy land near the Arctic in winter. It brings bitter cold outbreaks.
The Technical Definition
An air mass (cA) originating over high-latitude snow- and ice-covered continents, especially in winter, with extremely low temperatures, very low specific humidity, and a strong surface-based inversion; often shallow, so it can pool against terrain.
Lessons That Use Continental Arctic
- Air Masses And Where They Come From Unit 4: Air Masses And Fronts
