Following a cold front, the prevailing wind direction is typically from which direction?

After the passage of a cold front, the prevailing wind direction predominantly shifts to the west or northwest. This occurs due to the movement of air masses associated with frontal systems. Cold fronts are characterized by the advancement of a colder air mass that displaces the warmer air ahead of it.

When the cold front moves through an area, it typically brings a change in the wind flow as the colder, denser air moves in, generally from the west. This corresponds with the atmosphere's stabilization that follows the frontal passage, often resulting in clearer skies and decreased precipitation.

Understanding the dynamics of wind direction following a cold front is essential for flight planning and weather awareness, as wind direction can significantly impact takeoff and landing operations, along with overall flight conditions.