Spatial distribution of air temperature in central part of Svalbard in the period 2008-2010 ( Short Communication )

The air temperature and wind speed measurements done in the Petunia Bay and Svalbard Lufthaven, in the period from August 2008 to June 2010, were analyzed and related to the differences in weather conditions and their synoptic origins over the central part of Svalbard archipelago. The highest air temperature differences between the two study sites ranged from 3 to 6.8°C and occurred most frequently during anticyclonic circulation from January to March. The smallest air temperature differences (from 0 to 2.0°C) appeared from May to October. During advection of air from northern and eastern sectors, the higher air temperature and wind speed occurred at the Petunia Bay than at Svalbard Lufthaven