As Deformation Bands occur either in the vicinity of frontal clouds or outside frontal zones, the vertical cross sections, especially the isentropes, may vary substantially from case to case.

• Total deformation
  Total deformation maximum at the level of maximum winds (jet stream level), on the pole ward side of the band.
• Upper/middle tropospheric humidity
  High upper and middle tropospheric relative humidity gradient at the axis of dilation.
• Vertical motion
  Weak or moderate sinking motion in middle and upper levels of the troposphere, within and towards the cold side of the Deformation Band.

Total deformation

Upper/middle tropospheric humidity

Vertical Motion