With reference to the heat dome, consider the following statements

1. A heat dome occurs when the atmosphere traps hot ocean air like a lid or cap.
2. A heat dome typically lasts a year.

Select the correct statement.

Canada is reeling under a severe heat wave. The weather experts have blamed the heat dome effect for the sudden rise in temperature.

• A heat dome occurs when the atmosphere traps hot ocean air like a lid or cap.
• The phenomenon begins when there is a strong change (or gradient) in ocean temperatures.
• In the process known as convection, the gradient causes more warm air, heated by the ocean surface, to rise over the ocean surface, according to NOAA.
• As prevailing winds move the hot air east, the northern shifts of the jet stream trap the air and move it toward land, where it sinks, resulting in heat waves.
• A heat dome typically lasts a week.

Effects of heat domes

• Those living without an air conditioner see the temperatures of their homes rising to unbearably high, leading to sudden fatalities.
• The trapping of heat can also damage crops, dry out vegetation and result in droughts.

Hence only statement 1st is correct.

By: Shubham Tiwari