In coming decades: Jet streams to strengthen as Earth warms

Jet streams are likely to accelerate in tune with the warming planet, according to new research just released.

In a study conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago and the National Centre for Atmospheric Research, the teams determined that as climate change continues, the upper-level jet stream winds, already the fastest, will grow stronger and faster still.

It is estimated that the winds will grow 2% faster for every 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) of warmth, with the fastest, upper bands accelerating 2.5 times faster than the average wind speed.

Jet streams exist around the world. They are narrow bands or strong winds at high altitude, typically from 5 to 7 miles above the surface of the Earth.

Moving air from west to east, every area they touch feels the impact, contributing to changing temperatures as air masses move and to the development of thunderstorms and other major weather makers.

With recent news reports on record-breaking flights over the Atlantic, the jet stream even has a tangible impact on international air travel, helping to push aircraft towards their destination a little faster.

While trans-Atlantic flights may get a boost in speed, they will also see greater amounts of turbulence if the jet stream does strengthen.

This research is the first of its kind to examine what will happen to the jet stream's upper winds in the event of continued global warming. As such, there is work to determine the impact of the change on storms and severe weather.

If the result of the studies is true, the team say that we can expect to see a notable change in the jet streams over the coming decades.