Type of System
How Does the Air Move?
Does the Air Rise or Sink? Does it get warmer or colder?
Type of Weather Caused by this System
High-pressure
System
Low-pressure System
In a high-pressure system, the air sinks and moves in a clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. The sinking air creates a stable atmosphere with clear skies and generally fair weather conditions.
In a low-pressure system, the air rises and moves in a counterclockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. The rising air creates instability in the atmosphere, leading to the formation of clouds, precipitation, and potentially severe weather conditions such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, or blizzards.
High-pressure systems are associated with clear and dry weather, while low-pressure systems are associated with cloudy and potentially stormy weather.