Definition

Trade Winds is defined as steady and persistent winds which blow on the Equatorial side of the subtropical high pressure systems in both Hemispheres.

Description

When air moves, the Coriolis force deflects air either to the right of air motion in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left of air motion in the Southern Hemisphere.

Where the Trade Winds from each hemisphere approach each other, the rising air creates instability which, depending on the strength of the winds, results in a line of cumulonimbus clouds. This line of weather is known as the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is generally located near the Equator year-round, except in the Indian Ocean and central Asian landmass in the Northern Hemisphere Summer.