To describe the location of air masses around Salem, Oregon, from May 6-7, it’s important to consider the typical meteorological patterns for that time of year. May usually features a transition from the cooler, wetter weather of spring to the warmer, drier conditions of early summer.
During this period, the following air mass characteristics might be observed:
1. **Maritime Polar Air Mass:** Coming from the northwest (the Pacific Ocean), this air mass generally brings cooler, moist conditions. In early May, Salem may experience cloudy skies, occasional rainfall, and cooler temperatures due to the influence of this maritime air mass.
2. **Continental Tropical Air Mass:** As daylight hours increase and temperatures start to rise, there may also be incursions of warm, dry air from the desert regions to the south (California and beyond). If this air mass moves north into Oregon, it could lead to warmer temperatures and drier conditions.
3. **Frontal Boundaries:** Depending on the specific forecasts around those dates, there could be frontal boundaries associated with these air masses. A cold front moving through could bring a sudden drop in temperature and increased precipitation, while a warm front could result in gradual warming and cloudiness.
4. **Local Influences:** The geographical features of the Willamette Valley, including the presence of mountains and the proximity to the ocean, can also influence local weather. These features can modify the characteristics of the incoming air masses, leading to localized weather phenomena.
For accurate weather conditions and specific air mass locations for those exact dates, checking historical weather data or forecasts would provide a clearer picture.