Isobaric Charts - Ridges and Troughs

Notice that the height lines are NOT oriented E-W

In fact, one can see a wave-type pattern in the height lines with:

• ridges

• troughs

Q: Is there warm or cold air aloft associated with a ridge? ANSWER

Q: Is there warm or cold air aloft associated with a trough? ANSWER

Test your knowledge with this data example:  What is the relationship between upper-level troughs and ridges and surface temperatures? | 500 mb heights | surface temperature |

500 mb Chart