Question
Why does weather typically move from the west to the east across the United States?
Explain what happens when a polar vortex occurs. How is the jet stream involved?
Identify all types of clouds.
Answer
Weather typically moves from the west to the east across the United States due to the prevailing westerly winds created by the jet stream. A polar vortex occurs when the jet stream weakens and allows cold air from the Arctic to move southward. The jet stream is a fast-moving river of air that circles the globe and helps to steer weather systems. The three main types of clouds are cumulus, stratus, and cirrus.