What does a ridge indicate in weather patterns?

A ridge in weather patterns indicates a line of high pressure. This meteorological feature typically reflects an area where the atmospheric pressure is higher than the surrounding areas. As a result, ridges are commonly associated with fair weather, clear skies, and stable atmospheric conditions.

The formation of a ridge occurs when warmer air aloft creates an upward slope, resulting in descending air that inhibits cloud formation. This high-pressure system limits precipitation, and is often responsible for prolonged dry spells or sunny conditions in the regions it influences.

In contrast, other atmospheric features, such as troughs, indicate areas of low pressure and often lead to stormy weather and increased precipitation. Therefore, understanding ridges as high-pressure areas helps meteorologists predict weather patterns effectively.