Katabatic Wind
A gravity-driven wind that flows downhill from elevated terrain, such as glaciers or high coastal cliffs, typically bringing colder, denser air to lower altitudes.
A katabatic wind occurs when cold, dense air accumulates over elevated landmasses—such as ice sheets, mountain slopes, or high plateaus—and then flows downward under the influence of gravity. These winds are most commonly associated with polar regions, particularly Antarctica and Greenland, where large ice masses cool the overlying air, making it denser than the surrounding atmosphere. Once this dense air begins to descend, it accelerates down slopes and valleys, often reaching strong or even gale-force speeds. Katabatic winds can also occur in non-polar regions, such as along steep coastal cliffs or mountainous terrain, especially at night when land surfaces cool rapidly.
In a marine context, katabatic winds can have significant effects on local sea conditions. When these winds blow offshore, they can rapidly lower coastal air temperatures and increase wind-driven surface currents, sometimes creating hazardous conditions for small craft. They may also influence fog formation, sea ice movement, and local weather systems. Mariners operating near high-latitude coastlines or steep coastal topography should be aware of the potential for sudden katabatic wind events, which can arise with little warning and significantly affect navigation and anchorage safety.
In the Mediterranean region, katabatic winds are relatively common due to the combination of mountainous coastlines and localised weather patterns. These winds can have a significant impact on coastal weather, sea conditions, and local sailing.
