Consider the following statements about the ‘Roaring Forties’:

1. They blow uninterrupted in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
2. They blow with great strength and constancy.
3. Their direction is generally from North – West to East in the Southern Hemisphere.
4. Overcast skies, rain and raw weather are generally associated with them.

Which of these statements are correct?

1. I, II and III
2. II, III and IV
3. I, III and IV
4. I, II and IV

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect

• The “Roaring Forties” refer to the strong and persistent westerly winds of the Southern Hemisphere (around 40°–65°S). In contrast, westerlies in the Northern Hemisphere are less consistent due to the presence of large landmasses.

Statement 2 is correct

• These southern westerlies are particularly strong and steady because they blow over vast, uninterrupted oceanic areas.

Statement 3 is correct

• The Roaring Forties generally move from west to east. In the Southern Hemisphere, they typically blow from the northwest toward the southeast, showing a clear eastward component.

Statement 4 is correct

• These winds are often associated with cloudy, damp, and stormy weather conditions, frequently bringing overcast skies and rainfall.

Answer: (b) II, III and IV