January 12, 1995 Storm, Infrared Satellite Image

This is a satellite view of the same January Storm depicted in the 500 Mb upper level and surface maps. On this view, the typical "comma" shaped cloud mass has been outlined in black; the center of the low pressure cell is centered beneath the head of the comma. Black arrows have been added to show the direction of wind flow around this low pressure cell. In general terms, cold fronts are formed when cold, dry air moves down from the north, invading territory occupied by warm air; warm fronts form as warm air moves northward into areas occupied by cooler air. All air flow around a low pressure cell like this one is counter-clockwise in the northern hemisphere, opposite or clockwise in the southern hemisphere.