Spatio-temporal variability of jet streams over North America and North Pacific Ocean

This study examines the impact of climate change on jet stream features and their seasonal fluctuations across North America (NA) from 1984 to 2023. Maps and analyses were produced utilizing ERA5, ERA-Interim, and NCEP/NNCAR data for Temperature (T), Zonal wind (Uwnd), and Meridional wind (Vwnd). Results indicate two important places where jet streams are significantly affected by climate change: the North Pacific Ocean (NPO) and the eastern portion of North America (EPNA). The most varied jet stream trajectories in the NPO manifest during summer, but in EPNA, they peak in autumn. Jet streams are positioned lower and exhibit more velocity in winter, whereas they are situated higher and demonstrate less velocity in summer. In the last 40 years, jet streams have demonstrated cyclical patterns of 5, 7, and 10 years, exhibiting no altitude variations, while in other instances, they have shown fluctuations between 100 and 300 hectopascals in altitude. The winter and spring jet streams over the NPO ascended to elevated altitudes, diminishing variations, whereas the winter and autumn jet streams over EPNA descended, amplifying volatility. Seasonal analysis of temperature and zonal wind patterns revealed that rising temperatures were associated with increased zonal wind speeds across nearly all seasons. Concurrently, the jet stream cores exhibited a consistent upward and poleward shift toward higher latitudes. These currents convey moisture, influencing regional climatic patterns and resulting in occurrences such as atmospheric rivers. This study highlights the variable characteristics of jet streams and their essential function in regional climate.