Polish polar research in the field of meteorology and climatology

The article presents a synthetic review and summary of the achievements of Polish meteorological and climatological research in both polar areas, with a historical perspective. Various aspects of these achievements are discussed, beginning with the organisation of and participation in polar expeditions, the scope of meteorological measurements and observations conducted during research, and results from weather and climate research in the study areas. Publications that have resulted from research other than meteorological measurements and observations conducted as part of polar expeditions are also described. A detailed analysis of the activity of Polish scientists in the field of polar climatology and meteorology since its inception in the late nineteenth century revealed four distinct periods (waves) of clearly more intense activity: 1) the 1930s, 2) 1957-1962, 3) the 1970s, especially the latter half, 4) the last 30 years, with a peak in 2004-2009 (preparatory period 2004-2007 and IV International Polar Year 2007-2009). Although the meteorological and climatological research conducted by Polish scientists included both polar regions, decidedly the greatest research and publication achievements (including journals from the Journal Citation Reports database) concern Svalbard. It was found that, alongside Norwegian researchers, Polish scientists account for the largest share in the diagnosis of weather and climate conditions in this area. A detailed analysis of the research issues led to the conclusion that Polish meteorological and climatological research is very comprehensive but, nevertheless, its specialisations, especially with regards to studies on Svalbard, are: 1) micro-climatic research, and especially topoclimatic research; and 2) research into the influence of atmospheric circulation in determining weather and climate.