The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a band of inclement weather, formed by the convergence of trade winds from both hemispheres, as well as the interaction of trade winds from one hemisphere with those from the opposite hemisphere that cross the equator and change direction, along with the expansion of the trade winds from each hemisphere with the westerly winds of the equator.
Vietnam is influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone, with the Southwest winds on one side and the trade winds from the East or Southeast coming from the East Sea-Pacific on the other. The convergence zone affects our country from around June to September.
The impact of the Intertropical Convergence Zone: Areas where the convergence zone is active often experience significant thunderstorms and widespread rainfall.
The Intertropical Convergence Zone typically operates within the internal latitudes.
The movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone to the north or south depends on the apparent motion of the Sun.
The convergence zone during winter typically lies south of the equator. (Photo: facebook tuyensinh247).
In winter, when the trade winds of the Northern Hemisphere are strong and cross the equator into the Southern Hemisphere, they shift to a northwest direction, converging with the trade winds of the Southern Hemisphere. Therefore, the convergence zone in winter is usually found south of the equator.
In summer, the Intertropical Convergence Zone typically moves from the Southern Hemisphere up towards the Northern Hemisphere due to the strong activity of the Southern Hemisphere trade winds pushing northward and converging with the trade winds of the Northern Hemisphere.
During autumn and spring, when the trade wind systems of both hemispheres operate stably together, the Intertropical Convergence Zone tends to remain in the equatorial region.
