Meteorological observations at Syowa Station in 2001 by the 42nd Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition

Abstract

This report presents results of meteorological observations performed by the 42nd Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition from February 1, 2001 through January 31, 2002 at Syowa Station. Instruments and means of compiling statistics were similar to those used on the 41st Expedition. Remarkable weather phenomena during the wintering period are as follows.1) Anomalously low temperature was observed in the lower stratosphere from September to November.2) Severe ozone depletion was found by total ozone observation. The lowest monthly means of total ozone since 1966 were recorded in September and November.3) Polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) were observed by using aerosol sondes in June, before ozone hole appearance.