Massive Ridge Expected to Break 70-Year Record in the East Coast

December 18, 2023

Today, a massive ridge downstream of a cyclone on the East Coast is predicted to surpass the 70-year record for 500mb height in the region. This extraordinary weather event is expected to occur in late December, presenting a 20% chance of breaking the annual record as well.

Meteorologist Tomer Burg took to Twitter to share the forecast, stating that the upcoming ridge will easily obliterate the December ERA5 500mb height record from 1950 to the present day. The potential of this weather phenomenon has already sparked interest and curiosity among weather enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The 500mb height record refers to the height of the atmospheric pressure level at 500 millibars above sea level. It is a crucial indicator for meteorologists, as it provides insights into atmospheric circulation patterns and the overall weather conditions in a specific region.

According to Burg’s tweet, the ridge is expected to be so significant that it has the potential to break the record not only for December but for the entire year. This is an unprecedented occurrence that highlights the magnitude and impact of the upcoming weather system.

Weather models, such as the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Ensemble Prediction System (EPS), have been utilized to assess the probability of this record-breaking event. The EPS indicates a 20% chance of surpassing the annual 500mb height record in late December.

The implications of this weather event could be far-reaching. A significant ridge can lead to altered weather patterns, including changes in wind direction, precipitation levels, and overall atmospheric stability. The potential impacts on local weather conditions and the region’s climate cannot be understated.

As the date approaches, meteorologists and weather enthusiasts will closely monitor the development and progression of this ridge. It is essential to gather as much data as possible to improve our understanding of these weather phenomena and their potential consequences.

While the record-breaking potential of this ridge is remarkable, it is important to note that weather forecasts are subject to change. The complexity of atmospheric dynamics and the inherent uncertainties associated with long-range predictions mean that adjustments may occur as more data becomes available.

The anticipation surrounding this upcoming weather event serves as a reminder of the continuous advancements in meteorological science. With improved forecasting models and technological capabilities, meteorologists are better equipped to analyze and predict weather patterns, providing valuable information to the public and aiding in disaster preparedness.

As we wait for late December to unfold, the possibility of breaking a 70-year record hangs in the balance. The meteorological community eagerly awaits the outcome, ready to delve deeper into the science behind this extraordinary weather event and its long-lasting effects.

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The massive ridge downstream of today’s East Coast cyclone is expected to easily obliterate the December ERA5 500mb height record (1950-present) in the region…

…and per the EPS, even has a 20% chance of breaking the *annual* 500mb height record… in late December! https://t.co/273d4AmzzL pic.twitter.com/TrQrOnJt0u

— Tomer Burg (@burgwx) December 18, 2023

Source

@burgwx said The massive ridge downstream of today’s East Coast cyclone is expected to easily obliterate the December ERA5 500mb height record (1950-present) in the region… …and per the EPS, even has a 20% chance of breaking the *annual* 500mb height record… in late December! twitter.com/burgwx/status/…