Downdraft: meaning, definitions and examples
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downdraft
[ ˈdaʊnˌdræft ]
meteorology
A downdraft is a downward-moving air current typically associated with thunderstorms and other severe weather phenomena. It occurs when cool air sinks rapidly towards the ground, often resulting in gusty winds and changes in pressure. Downdrafts can lead to various weather effects, including increased precipitation and the potential for severe weather conditions like hail or tornadoes. They are a critical component of storm dynamics and can significantly influence local weather patterns.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The downdraft from the storm caused a sudden drop in temperature.
- Pilots must be cautious of downdrafts when flying near thunderstorms.
- The intense downdraft created strong gusts of wind in the valley.
- Farmers were alerted to the downdraft conditions that could damage crops.
Translations
Translations of the word "downdraft" in other languages:
🇵🇹 corrente descendente
🇮🇳 नीचले प्रवाह
🇩🇪 Abwind
🇮🇩 aliran turun
🇺🇦 низький повітряний потік
🇵🇱 prąd zstępujący
🇯🇵 ダウンドラフト
🇫🇷 courant descendant
🇪🇸 corriente descendente
🇹🇷 aşağı akım
🇰🇷 하강 기류
🇸🇦 تيار هابط
🇨🇿 sestupný proud
🇸🇰 klesajúci prúd
🇨🇳 下沉气流
🇸🇮 naraščajoči tok
🇮🇸 niðurstreymisstraumur
🇰🇿 төменгі ағын
🇬🇪 ქვედა ნაკადი
🇦🇿 aşağı axın
🇲🇽 corriente descendente
Etymology
The term 'downdraft' originated in the English language in the mid-20th century, combining the prefix 'down-', indicating movement towards a lower position, with the noun 'draft', which refers to the flow of air. This term emerged from the study of meteorological phenomena, particularly in relation to severe weather patterns like thunderstorms. The understanding of downdrafts became crucial for meteorologists and pilots, as these downdrafts can greatly affect air travel and weather forecasting. As weather technology and research have advanced, so has the significance of understanding downdrafts in predicting severe weather events. The concept also found usage in aviation to describe the effects of downdrafts on aircraft performance, leading to enhanced safety protocols.