Increased meridional flow of the Polar Jet Stream most likely leads to which mid-latitude weather pattern?

💡 Explanation:

A highly meridional (North-South wavy) jet stream pattern creates deep troughs and ridges, causing 'blocking' patterns. This stagnation leads to prolonged periods where weather systems, and the associated air masses, remain stationary. Consequently, regions under the ridge experience prolonged extreme heat, while those under the trough experience prolonged extreme cold, increasing the persistence of weather extremes. This contrasts with zonal flow, which moves systems quickly (Option A) and yields milder conditions (Option B).