Meteorologically-sensitive

Describing a system, process, organism, or phenomenon that is significantly affected by changes in meteorological conditions, such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure. This sensitivity can manifest in various ways, including altered behavior, growth patterns, operational efficiency, or structural integrity. The degree of sensitivity varies greatly, ranging from subtle responses to dramatic shifts depending on the specific factors involved and the entity's characteristics. Understanding this sensitivity is crucial for forecasting, risk assessment, and effective management in various fields, including agriculture, aviation, and environmental science. The term emphasizes the interdependence between observed environmental parameters and corresponding outcomes.

Meteorologically-sensitive meaning with examples

• Farmers must understand that crops are meteorologically-sensitive. The timing of planting, irrigation, and harvesting depends heavily on weather forecasts. Prolonged droughts or excessive rainfall can devastate yields, so farmers often use weather-related information to help their management decisions. Different crops also display diverse responses to different levels of water, sunlight and exposure. Understanding this relationship is key to optimizing crop production and minimizing losses.
• Aviation is highly meteorologically-sensitive, with flight schedules and safety heavily reliant on weather patterns. Pilots must consider wind shear, turbulence, visibility, and icing conditions. Airports use sophisticated forecasting systems, and real-time data to make decisions about whether flights are safe and can proceed or if diversions and cancellations are necessary. Severe weather, like thunderstorms, will frequently close an airport and impact air travel globally.
• Coastal ecosystems are meteorologically-sensitive, with changes in sea level, storm surges, and ocean temperatures significantly impacting marine life. Coral bleaching, coastal erosion, and changes in fish migration patterns are all examples of how coastal environments respond to altered weather. Understanding the relationships of these factors is crucial to protect coastal areas. The long term impact of these changes can have widespread social and economic impacts.
• Building materials used in bridges are meteorologically-sensitive and need to be carefully selected to withstand seasonal variations. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can lead to the degradation of concrete, while high winds and heavy rain can cause erosion and damage to structural components. Regular inspections and maintenance schedules are essential to assess the impact of weather. Climate change is driving this to new levels and changes to materials have to happen.