📖 what
What is a katabatic wind?
Quick Answer
A katabatic wind is a gravity-driven wind that flows downhill, often from cold, high terrain. It can become very strong and very cold.
The Full Story
Katabatic winds form when dense air over a high plateau, ice sheet, or mountain slope begins to sink under gravity. As it descends, it may accelerate and compress, sometimes producing severe winds in valleys and coastal regions. Antarctica is famous for powerful katabatic winds flowing off the ice sheet toward the coast. These winds can be dangerous because they arrive suddenly and can generate intense chill and blowing snow.
Key Facts
1.Katabatic winds flow downhill under gravity
2.They are especially common over ice sheets and mountain slopes
3.Antarctic katabatic winds are among the most powerful on Earth
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The wind that literally falls downhill."
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