Intertropical Convergence Zone

/ ˌɪntəˈtrɒpɪkəl /

noun

1. meteorol the zone of deep convection and heavy rainfall in the tropics, esp along or near the equator ITCZ

intertropical convergence zone

/ ĭn′tər-trŏp′ĭ-kəl /

1. A broad area of low atmospheric pressure located in the equatorial region where the northeasterly and southeasterly trade winds converge, extending approximately 10° north and south of the equator. As warm, humid air converges on this zone, it rises and cools, forming clouds and frequent, heavy showers. The doldrums occur within the intertropical convergence zone.

Example Sentences

The researchers also found that an atmospheric band near the equator called the "intertropical convergence zone," which produces 30 percent of global precipitation, causes an intense amount of energy transfer, and produces ocean turbulence.

From Science Daily

A large fraction of humanity depends on a belt of thunderstorms and rain called the Intertropical Convergence Zone.

From Scientific American

The torrential rain in several Venezuelan states over the weekend may have also been connected to activity in the Intertropical Convergence Zone, meteorologists said, or to the impact of the nearby tropical storm, Julia, which strengthened to a hurricane and prompted flooding and mudslides in parts of Central America.

From Washington Post

Located 1600 kilometers south of Honolulu, the atoll sits just shy of 6° north of the equator, on the edge of the intertropical convergence zone, a band of ocean known for slack winds and abundant rainfall.

From Science Magazine

That can shift the invisible meeting point of Northern and Southern Hemisphere trade winds — the Intertropical Convergence Zone — that affects where monsoon rains tend to fall.

From New York Times