Topic: Pressure and Global Pressure belts
Q2. Examine the causes of shifting of global pressure belts. How do these shifts influence jet streams? Discuss their impact on extreme weather events. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: InsightsIAS
Why the question
IPCC reports and multiple extreme events like Pakistan floods 2022 and Texas winter storm 2021 highlight how shifting pressure belts and jet stream changes are amplifying climate risks.Key Demand of the question
The question requires examining the causes behind shifting of global pressure belts, analysing how these shifts influence jet streams, and finally discussing their linkages with extreme weather events across the globe.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Define global pressure belts briefly and link their dynamic nature to atmospheric circulation and climate change relevance.
Body
- Causes of shifting of pressure belts – cover solar movement, land-sea contrasts, ocean-atmosphere variability, and climate change.
- Influence on jet streams – explain displacement, meandering, and strengthening/weakening impacts.
- Impact on extreme weather events – illustrate heatwaves, floods, cyclones, droughts, and polar vortex disruptions with contemporary examples.
Conclusion
End with a forward-looking note on strengthening forecasting, resilience, and climate governance to mitigate risks.
