Large-scale weather (LSW)
Large-scale weather (LSW) patterns are weather developments over a large area, which do not
significantly change over several days. According to Franz Baur (1887 - 1977), a large-scale weather pattern is a
certain atmospheric state which substantially remains similar in its characteristic streaming patterns over several
days. Generally, a definition period of 3 days is used.
The weather
itself can change during a large-scale weather pattern, but the character of the respective regional weather remains
the same. The regional differentiation and the typical sequence of large-scale weather patterns define the climate of a region. The large-scale weather pattern is also of
importance to predict the development of the weather and the atmospheric conditions for a longer period.
Description
- Definition
- The weather conditions over a large area which does not substantially change for several days.
- Definition period
- Mostly 3 days.
- Weather change
- Is possible, but the character of the respective regional weather is kept.
- Typical successive LSW
- Substantially define the regional climate; are of great importance for weather forecasting.
- Types
- Zonal, mixed and meridional circulation forms.
European maps
On the four maps below, you can follow the current large-scale weather conditions for the next
3 days. The actual large-scale weather situation depends, naturally, on the weather. It can therefore also change
within the coming days.
To see the up-to-date maps in full size, click on the respective picture.
Other maps show the weather for Central Europe, North- and South America, Africa, Southeast Asia or for the World.