What Is Mountain Wave?
A wave in the air that forms downwind of mountains when wind blows over them, like ripples downstream of a rock in a river. It can create lens-shaped clouds and severe turbulence. In technical terms: A stationary internal gravity wave forced by stable flow over topography, with wavelengths typically 5-25 km; favored by strong cross-barrier flow and stable air with wind increasing with height.
Also called: Lee Wave, Orographic Wave
Mountain Wave In Plain English
A wave in the air that forms downwind of mountains when wind blows over them, like ripples downstream of a rock in a river. It can create lens-shaped clouds and severe turbulence.
The Technical Definition
A stationary internal gravity wave forced by stable flow over topography, with wavelengths typically 5-25 km; favored by strong cross-barrier flow and stable air with wind increasing with height. Trapped lee waves form lenticular and rotor clouds, and amplifying waves can cause downslope windstorms.
Lessons That Use Mountain Wave
- Local Winds: Sea Breezes, Mountain Winds And More Unit 3: Wind And Pressure Systems
