These are dry, cold prevailing winds blowing from high-pressure areas of the polar highs at the North and South Poles towards low-pressure areas. They flow generally from east to west, hence the designation “easterlies.” Characterized by their irregularity and strength, these winds are typically weak and sporadic and often disrupted by cyclonic activity closer to the polar front.
The circulation patterns in the polar regions play a crucial role in the global wind system and energy balance. These winds contribute to the transport of cold air masses away from the poles, influencing weather patterns at lower latitudes. Understanding their behavior is important for accurate weather forecasting and climate modeling, offering insights into larger climate systems.