What does a ridge represent in meteorological terms?

A ridge in meteorological terms refers to an elongated region of high atmospheric pressure. This feature is often characterized by associated fair weather conditions due to the sinking air that occurs in high-pressure systems. The presence of a ridge can lead to warmer temperatures and clearer skies, as the air tends to compress and warm as it descends.

In contrast, the other options describe different meteorological phenomena. Low humidity is a characteristic that can be influenced by a variety of factors but does not define a ridge. A cold weather front refers to the leading edge of a colder air mass moving into a region, which can produce varying weather patterns but is not related to the pressure patterns that define a ridge. Storm systems are typically associated with low-pressure areas that generate cloud formation and precipitation, contrasting with the generally more stable conditions found in a ridge. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the significant role ridges play in shaping local and regional weather patterns.