


Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)

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Category: Weather Weather
Content source: Eurocontrol Eurocontrol
Content control: Eurocontrol Eurocontrol

Inter Tropical Convergence Zone


Where the Trade Winds from each hemisphere approach each other, the rising air creates instability which, depending on the strength of the winds, results in a line of clouds. This line of weather is known as the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)).



Where the trade winds are weak, the ITCZ is characterised by isolated Cumulus and Cumulonimbus (Cb) (Cb) cells. However, where the trade winds are stronger, the ITCZ can be a solid line of active Cb cells embedded with other cloud types developing as a result of instability at higher levels. Cb tops can reach as high as 55,000 feet, and the ITCZ can be as wide as 300 nautical miles in places presenting a formidable obstacle to aircraft.


Aircraft flying through the ITCZ will encounter all the hazards associated with Cb clouds such as icing, turbulence, lightning, and wind shear. For further information see the main article Cumulonimbus (Cb).

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