catabatic
/ˌkætəˈbætɪk/
adjective
- Relating to or caused by the downward movement of air, especially a wind that flows down a slope (e.g., a mountain or glacier) due to cooling and gravity.
- Meteorologists study catabatic flows to predict local weather patterns in mountainous regions.
- Skiers in the Alps sometimes encounter sudden catabatic gusts that make conditions dangerous.
- The catabatic winds off the Antarctic plateau can reach hurricane force.
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