baroclinic instability

meteorology

Also known as: baroclinically unstable waves

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Baroclinic instability is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when latitudinal temperature differences become too large, creating an imbalance in atmospheric pressure and density levels. This instability is a key factor in determining atmospheric behavior.1

In essence, baroclinic instability involves the conversion of potential energy into kinetic energy. This happens as warm, lighter air rises and cold, heavier air sinks. This process is closely linked to horizontal temperature gradients and results in vertical wind shear. The amplification of atmospheric waves, such as Rossby waves, can occur through this instability, leading to increased wind speeds and further development of weather systems.2

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atmosphere
Extratropical cyclones
…and occluded stages are called baroclinically unstable waves. Extratropical storm development is referred to as cyclogenesis. Rapid extratropical cyclone development, called explosive cyclogenesis (or, informally, bombogenesis), is often associated with major winter storms and occurs when surface pressure falls by more than about 24 millibars per day, and the storms…
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…and occluded stages are called baroclinically unstable waves. Extratropical storm development is referred to as cyclogenesis. Rapid extratropical cyclone development, called explosive cyclogenesis (or, informally, bombogenesis), is often associated with major winter storms and occurs when surface pressure falls by more than about 24 millibars per day, and the storms…
Read More

climate
Propagation and development of waves
In this process, called baroclinic instability, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy—which occurs as wind—as warm, light air rises and cold, heavy air sinks. Since baroclinic instability is associated with horizontal temperature gradients, according to the thermal wind relation (3), there must be vertical wind shear.
Read More
In this process, called baroclinic instability, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy—which occurs as wind—as warm, light air rises and cold, heavy air sinks. Since baroclinic instability is associated with horizontal temperature gradients, according to the thermal wind relation (3), there must be vertical wind shear.
Read More