kõrgerõhu

Kõrgerõhu, also known as high pressure or an anticyclone, is a weather phenomenon characterized by atmospheric pressure that is higher than its surrounding environment. In meteorological terms, it is a region where the atmospheric pressure at the surface of the Earth is greater than the pressure in the surrounding area. This often leads to settled weather conditions.

Anticyclones are typically associated with descending air. As air sinks, it warms and dries, inhibiting the formation of clouds and precipitation. Consequently, areas under the influence of high pressure often experience clear skies, sunshine, and calm or light winds. The term "anticyclone" itself signifies the opposite of a cyclone, which is a low-pressure system often associated with stormy weather.

The movement of high-pressure systems is influenced by prevailing winds and the Earth's rotation. They generally move from west to east in the mid-latitudes. The size and strength of an anticyclone can vary, affecting the duration and intensity of the weather it brings. Prolonged periods of high pressure can lead to heatwaves in the summer and cold snaps in the winter, depending on the season and the origin of the air mass. Understanding high pressure is crucial for weather forecasting and for comprehending the broader patterns of atmospheric circulation.