The role of synoptic/planetary-scale interactions during the development of a blocking anticyclone

Consideration is given to the development of a blocking anticyclone over the North Atlantic preceded by explosive cyclogenesis about 500 km south of Nova Scotia during January 19-21, 1979. The general behavior of the block is studied using the extended height tendency equation. The relative importance of planetary-scale, synoptic-scale, and scale-interaction forcing of the block is examined.