| Term: | Polar air |
| Definition: |
Mass of air which has laid over high latitudes for several days and which, therefore, has become fairly cold, at least in the lower levels. WMOMeteoterm
A type of air mass with characteristics developed over high latitudes, especially within the subpolar highs. Continental polar air (cP) has low surface temperature, low moisture content, and, especially in its source regions, great stability in the lower layers. It is shallow in comparison with arctic air. Maritime polar air (mP) initially possesses similar properties to those of continental polar air, but in passing over warmer water it becomes unstable with a higher moisture content. AMSglossary GCW |