Bise
Sign in to savethumb|right|Bise on Lake Geneva The Bise or bize (French: La Bise) is a cold, dry wind in Switzerland that blows through the Swiss Plateau from northeast to southwest. It typically arises when high-pressure systems over northern or eastern Europe create an air pressure difference that channels wind between the Jura mountains and the Alps. Occurring throughout the year, it brings dry weather in summer and often forms low stratus clouds in winter. The Bise has been associated with travel disruptions, agricultural damage, and weather-related physical symptoms, such as headaches.
Article
4 sectionsContents
- Formation and effects
- Wind patterns and measurement
- Etymology and cultural references
- References
thumb|right|Bise on Lake Geneva The Bise or bize (French: La Bise) is a cold, dry wind in Switzerland that blows through the Swiss Plateau from northeast to southwest. It typically arises when high-pressure systems over northern or eastern Europe create an air pressure difference that channels wind between the Jura mountains and the Alps. Occurring throughout the year, it brings dry weather in summer and often forms low stratus clouds in winter. The Bise has been associated with travel disruptions, agricultural damage, and weather-related physical symptoms, such as headaches.
== Formation and effects == The Bise develops when a high-pressure system over northern or eastern Europe coincides with low pressure over the Mediterranean, generating an east-to-northeast wind that moves westward across the Swiss Plateau. It flows through the natural corridor between the Jura mountains and the Alps, gaining strength where this gap narrows, particularly in western Switzerland. In summer, the Bise brings dry air and temperatures typical of the season. During winter, it can lead to the formation of high fog across the plateau and cause strong winds that may reach 100 km/h in the Lake Geneva region.