Gravity wave generation near upper jets, 'striated deltas' and extratropical cyclones

Curious, triangular-shaped cloud formations called ‘striated deltas’ often accompany deep low pressure systems and feature a pattern of banding visible in satellite imagery. This thesis examines the typical environment in which striated deltas form, and investigates the cause of cloud banding. Gravity waves generated by the upper-level jet stream are likely to determine properties of the banding, and influence characteristics of thunderstorm activity within the cloud. This thesis progresses our understanding of how the jet stream generates gravity waves during low pressure systems, and will improve forecasting of striated deltas and associated severe weather phenomena.