A new combined detection algorithm for blocking and subtropical ridges

Abstract Blockings are high-impact atmospheric systems of mid/high-latitudes and have been widely addressed in meteorological climatological studies. However, the diversity blocking definitions makes comparison across studies not straightforward. Here, we propose a conceptual model for life-cycle high-pressure that recognizes multifaceted transient characteristics these events. A detection scheme identifies classifies daily structures, discriminating between subtropical ridges different types well-established patterns (omega dipole-like Rex). This is complemented by spatio-temporal tracking algorithm, which accounts transitions patterns, providing global catalogue events 1950-2020. Criteria rely on simple metrics retrieved from one single-level field, allow implementation datasets climatic realms. Using reanalyses data, provide illustrative examples, first seasonal assessment events, their associated impacts recent frequency changes. Results reveal ridge affect widespread regions subtropics to high-latitudes. We find remarkably distinct regional among considered types, had hindered previous restricted focus Rex-like structures. plethora much less evident Southern Hemisphere, where activity dominated secluded blocking-like patterns. report increasing frequencies low-latitude systems, although with hemispheric differences can only be partially interpreted as consequence expansion. Blocking trends exhibit more heterogeneous complex spatial no evidence generalized significant