The change in the Jet Stream is a warning signal of meteorological crises. What is the Jet Stream?

Jet streams are fast-flowing air currents in the atmosphere at altitudes of approximately 10,000 – 15,000 meters above the Earth's surface. Temperature differences between the polar regions and the equator cause them. Hot air from the equator rises and moves towards the poles, while cold air from the polar areas moves down to replace it. These hot and cold air masses swirl around each other in a large, tube-like, elliptical shape, blowing from west to east along the direction of the Earth's rotation. Jet streams move at high speeds, with velocities ranging from approximately 50 to 300 miles per hour. The central core of the jet stream has an average wind speed of 80 knots or 92 miles per hour. The average wind speed in winter can reach up to 300 miles per hour.

Jet streams are divided into two types:

1. Subtropical Jet: This jet stream is located above the subtropical high-pressure zone at approximately 13 kilometers. Its wind speeds range from 80 to 150 knots and sometimes exceed 400 knots. The subtropical jet stream is commonly found in East Asia and the Pacific regions.
2. Polar Jet Stream: This jet stream is located above the polar front at approximately 10 kilometers. It is formed where cold air from the polar regions meets warm air from the tropics.

The important roles of the jet stream

• Directing Air Movement such as storms, hot air, and Cold air.
• Global Climate Impacts include season, temperature, rainfall, natural disasters, etc.
• Aviation Benefits and Challenges: Pilots usually fly along the Jet Stream to save time and fuel if they fly against the direction of the wind. It will cause the machine's speed to decrease.
• Air Pollution Dispersion, for example, can help carry air pollution out of the area. They have pollution in the ocean or remote areas.

Reference: "Meteorological Department; The Meteorological Office; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration", Department of Climate Change and Environment.