Slide 3 of 37
Notes:
The Bolivian High is generated through a combination of heating over the Andes Mountains/Bolivian Altiplano and the latent heat of condensation released by intense convection over the western Amazon basin. It forms in December and remains a major feature through March. It normally loses its support in early April as the NET moves back to the north. Streamlines identify the 200-mb center at roughly 13° S, 68° W (see Figure 2-15a). Note that the high slopes to the north from the surface of the Altiplano. Winds are generally light (5-10 knots at 200 mb) in the center, picking up to around 30 knots on the periphery. Wind speeds are higher to the south of the high due to the presence of the Subtropical Jet. The Bolivian High and the STJ provide good venting for thunderstorm development.