The Jet Stream as a Political Decision

The proposal seeks to tangibly communicate both long term patterns of climate, and the potential impact of impending global warming on the effects of more localised, short-term weather systems. Through various means of representation and kinetic response, the architecure engages with ground level aspects of weather and records patterns over time.

Patterns of the Jet Stream are directly affected by climate change, with the forecast of more frequent and intense extreme weather events caused by localised stationary pressure systems. This is of particular relevance to a remote, island location that on a higher level more subjective to extreme weather events and sea level rise. On the west coast and at the highest latitudes of the UK, the Outer Hebrides are exposed to the fronts of the polar jet stream, and have historically experienced some of the most extreme of national pressure recordings. 2 Moreover, the lifestyle of locals is so intrinsically governed by the weather, and the strong sense of community furthers the importance of implementing climate change adaptation strategies.

To achieve this, the architectural intervention will provide a facility for research, climate forecasting and political stratification. Rather than relying on a top-down approach to adaptation planning, the project will challenge the existing political hierarchy and respond to community initiatives, encouraging a collaborative approach to decision-making. Acting as a “Climate Beacon for the Western Isles” - engaging with local climate working groups and at a national scale when necessary - the scheme will lead the way into the development of effective climate adaptation strategies, and set a benchmark for other communities in the UK to emulate.

https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2022/07/05/more-frequent-european-heat-waves-linked-to-changes-in-jet-stream/

MET Office

- UK National weather service and climate centre

UKESM