Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The arctic tundra is affected by both prevailing westerlies and polar easterlies. These prevailing westerlies are also seen throughout the southern hemisphere as well. These winds are between latitude 30 and 60 degrees, in between the polar easterlies closest to the poles and the trade winds, closest to the equator. The winds move west in both the southern and northern hemisphere. The polar easterlies affect just a small amount of the arctic tundra. These winds blow cold air from the poles in an easterly direction.
The arctic tundra is located in the northern hemisphere, at about 55 degrees to 70 degrees latitude, stretching from the Arctic Circle down to coniferous forests. A layer of permanently frozen soil called permafrost can be found in this region. The growing season is only 50 to 60 days and results in types of moss, low-lying shrubs, lichen, and grasses. Because of the permafrost, these types of vegetation have shallow root systems. The plants grow close together and low to the ground to adapt to the sweeping wind of the area. Strong winds blowing 30 to 60 miles an hour can significantly bring down the temperature.
Alpine tundra is scattered throughout the world at high elevations, above the tree line. Wind patterns differ throughout the world in this climate. Because of more exposure to the sun, the alpine tundra doesn't necessarily develop permafrost, and winds that strip away snow can create a desert tundra. Drought attributable to extreme wind stress can lead plants to exhibit xerophytic adaptation in response to low water availability. Examples include shallow root systems or smaller leaves.