1. Air Masses
A huge body of air
Similar temperature, humidity and air pressure

2. Air Masses Classified according to…
Humidity level and Temperature level
Maritime Tropical
Continental Polar
First name Last name . . .

3. Maritime Forms over water Humid
Mar = “sea” (marine)Maritime means an air mass is

4. Continental
Form over land
Very Dry

5. Tropical
Warm air mass
Low Pressure (warm air rises)
Forms in Tropics

6. Polar Cold air mass High Pressure (cold air sinks)
Form south of 50* south latitude & north of 50* north latitude.

8. Maritime Tropical Forms in the Pacific Forms in the Atlantic
Affects West Coast Affects Southeastern US
Warm, humid air
Summer: Thunderstorms
Winter: Heavy Rain & Snow

9. Maritime Polar Forms in the Northern Pacific & Atlantic
Cold and Humid air
Brings rain, fog, and cool temperatures

10. Continental Tropical Hot & Dry
Forms over Southwestern and Northern Mexico
Hot, dry weather
Covers small area compared to other air masses

11. Continental Polar Cold & Dry Form over Central & northern Canada
Winter: Clear, cold, and dry weather
Summer: Storms