Weather systems in mid-latitudes

This article describes the development and structure of the weather systems that traverse the mid-latitudes of both hemispheres. First, a review of how rotation and thermal gradients set the background state for weather system development is described. Second, a description of mid-latitude storm (extratropical cyclone) structure, development and their associated features (wind flows and fronts) are presented. Finally, the development and lifecycle of blocking anticyclones is discussed along with a discussion of how their impacts vary depending on the season in which they develop.