SYNOPTIC CLIMATOLOGY: LINKING ATMOSPHERIC PATTERNS AND LOCAL CLIMATES

Synoptic climatology is the branch of climate science that examines the linkages between large‑scale atmospheric circulation patterns and regional or local climate variations. By classifying weather situations into distinct circulation types and correlating these with surface weather and climate variables, this approach provides insights into climate variability, extreme events, and environmental responses. Synoptic climatology has applications in extreme weather analysis, air quality studies, hydrology, and climate change assessments. This review outlines the conceptual framework, key methods, and environmental applications of synoptic climatology.