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Geography

The Role of the Jet Stream in Weather Patterns

Quick fact

The jet stream can reach speeds over 250 miles per hour (400 km/h) and is typically found at altitudes of 9 to 16 kilometers (30,000–50,000 feet) above Earth's surface.

Why this is interesting

You've seen a jet's contrail stretched across the sky — but have you ever wondered why the plane itself seems to ride an invisible river? That river is the jet stream, and it doesn't just carry planes: it shapes the weather you experience every day.