What is the speed of the jet stream over North America? How is this measured?
The jet stream most important to weather in North America is the mid-latitude jet stream. It varies in its position and intensity, depending on the season. During the summer, the jet stream is usually located over Canada and has an average speed of about 55 mph. During the winter, the jet stream moves south and can plunge as far as the Gulf of Mexico. Typical winter speeds of the jet stream can range from 100 mph to 150 mph. These wind speeds are measured by weather balloons. Tracking the distance and direction that weather balloons are blown gives meteorologists an idea of the shape and speed of the jet stream. Learn more about wind and jet streams on this USA TODAY resource page.
