Influence of variations of the cosmic rays on atmospheric pressure and temperature in the southern geomagnetic pole region

Abstract

Daily data of pressure, temperature, and wind observations at Antarctic station Vostok in 1981-1991 have been analyzed with regard to the cosmic-rays variations. Case study and statistical treatment of the data provide the following results. The beginning of the Forbush decrease of galactic cosmic rays is followed within one day by significant warming of the atmosphere (about 10°) at altitudes h < 6-7 km in the near-pole region. The duration of warming is about 1 day, then the atmosphere quickly reverted to previous temperature conditions. The Forbush decrease is accompanied by reduction of atmospheric pressure at all altitudes below 20 km, the magnitude of reduction being maximal at higher altitudes. The reduction of atmospheric pressure can develop synchronously with the Forbush decrease or can be delayed for 1-5 days depending on the preceding trends in the meteorological processes, occurrence of the solar proton spikes, and intensity of the Forbush decrease. Spikes of solar cosmic rays affect within 0-2 days the increase of atmospheric pressure at altitudes of 10-15 km. The troposphere warming and reduction of the pressure in low stratosphere and troposphere is followed within 0-6 days by reconstruction of the whole wind system above the near-pole region. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.