The Latest ALOMAR Potential Vorticity Plot
The Polar Vortex is characterized by a higher potential vorticity than the surroundings. For the 550 K level the airmasses within the vortex usually have a potential vorticity larger than 70 [10¯6 Km²/kgs].



Potential vorticity for the 550 K level of potential temperature

(Approximately 22.7 km height).



The Latest ALOMAR Polar Vortex Temperature Plot


Temperature for the 550 K level of potential temperature (approximately 22.7 km height).
The temperature is given in kelvin (K). In order to have PSCs, a temperature lower than
193 K is required in this height.