A potent storm is battering Spain and Morocco, bringing powerful winds, pounding waves and plentiful precipitation as it swirls through the western Mediterranean. The weight of the atmosphere as measured in London was 1049.6 millibars, or 30.99 inches — the highest air pressure reading recorded in three centuries of observation. Typical sea-level air pressure tends to be around 1013 millibars, or 29.92 inches. The ridge, or area of sinking air, has created a significant air-pressure contrast between the storm over Spain and areas to the north. This contrast is helping to cause the strong winds, as air seeks to equalize the difference in air pressure.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 21, 2020 17:02 UTC