ALBERTA CLIPPER Meaning and
Definition
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An Alberta Clipper refers to a meteorological phenomenon that typically affects the Canadian province of Alberta and surrounding regions during winter months. It represents a type of fast-moving low-pressure system that originates in the Alberta region and moves southeastwards, impacting various parts of North America. The name "clipper" is derived from the quick speed at which these weather systems move across a region.
Characteristically, an Alberta Clipper brings cold air masses from Canada into areas it passes through, often resulting in the delivery of heavy snowfall and gusty winds. These systems usually develop over the Rocky Mountains and are generally weaker in intensity compared to other winter storms, such as Nor'easters. While they can occasionally produce blizzard-like conditions, Alberta Clippers are generally associated with lighter to moderate snowfall and brief periods of inclement weather.
The term "Alberta Clipper" has gained popularity due to its significance in weather forecasting and public information dissemination concerning winter weather events. It helps communicate the potential occurrence of snow and winds in areas the system is likely to impact, assisting residents and emergency management agencies in preparing for the weather conditions adequately.
Overall, an Alberta Clipper refers to a swiftly moving low-pressure system originating in Alberta, Canada, which brings cold air, snow, and gusty winds to various parts of North America.
Etymology of ALBERTA CLIPPER
The term "Alberta clipper" is derived from two main components: the geographic reference to Alberta, a province in Canada, and the term "clipper", which originates from the world of sailing.
The word "clipper" was originally used to describe fast, streamlined sailing ships that were designed for speed and efficiency. These ships, known as clippers, were particularly popular in the mid-19th century. The term "clipper" became associated with speed and swift movement.
In the case of the weather phenomenon known as "Alberta clipper", the term was coined due to the origin and nature of the weather system. Alberta, being a province in western Canada, experiences weather patterns that move from west to east and often bring fast-moving, intense weather systems down from the Canadian prairies to the United States.
