What happens to pressure as a frontal system approaches?

As a frontal system approaches, pressure decreases. This phenomenon occurs due to the dynamics associated with the movement of air masses. A frontal system represents a boundary between different air masses, typically featuring warmer, lighter air interacting with cooler, denser air. As this system moves closer, the warmer air is often forced to rise, leading to a reduction in surface pressure. This drop in pressure can result in various weather phenomena such as clouds, precipitation, and storms as the warm air rises and cools, creating instability in the atmosphere.

Understanding this pressure behavior is essential for weather prediction, as dropping pressure typically signals that a weather front is moving into the area, often heralding changes in weather conditions.