Weatherwatch: Anticipated Impact of Cyclone Zelia and Cold Spells in North America and Europe
A tropical cyclone alert has been issued for Western Australia due to low 18U, expected to strengthen into cyclone Zelia, bringing heavy rain and high winds. Canada faces a severe cold snap, with temperatures dropping significantly, particularly in Western Canada. Europe is also set to experience colder temperatures next week as polar air masses move into the region, with some uncertainty regarding its intensity.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a tropical cyclone alert for the northern coast of Western Australia due to a tropical low, designated as 18U, spotted near the Kimberley region. The area is expected to experience strong winds and heavy rain starting Sunday night, along with a flood warning. Current forecasts indicate that 18U will continue moving south-westward while gaining strength, leading to the formation of tropical cyclone Zelia, anticipated to make landfall in the Pilbara area by week’s end.
Rainfall estimates in the affected region range from 150mm to 250mm (5.9 to 9.8 inches), with wind gusts projected to reach approximately 100mph. Meanwhile, Western Canada is enduring a significant cold spell as polar air infiltrates the area. This has resulted in temperatures plummeting to between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F) below the norm, particularly afflicting cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Saskatoon, where daytime maxima may hit -10°C to -15°C, with nighttime lows often dropping to -20°C or colder.
Saskatoon, notably situated at a similar latitude as Cambridge in the UK, illustrates the extremity of these conditions; its record low stands at -13°C. In Europe, a cold snap is predicted, with temperatures beginning to decline across northern regions this week. The most significant drop is expected the following week, when temperatures may fall from 2°C to 5°C below average in parts of northern Europe and 5°C to 10°C below average in Scandinavia due to a high-pressure system promoting cold, continental air mass influx.
As temperatures drop, there exists some uncertainty regarding the severity and duration of this cold spell, which will mainly impact areas away from southern and southwestern Europe. The potential effects of these weather systems denote the varied climatic challenges posed across different regions. Practitioners must remain vigilant and prepared for these developing weather phenomena, while ensuring communities are informed and safeguarded accordingly.
In conclusion, tropical cyclone Zelia poses a significant threat to Western Australia’s north coast, bringing heavy rainfall and severe winds. Concurrently, Western Canada braces for extreme cold temperatures, while Europe anticipates a late-season chill. Effective monitoring and preparedness are essential to mitigate the impact of these weather challenges across diverse geographical regions.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
