Polar Vortex Disruption Raises Prospect of Major US Cold Snap
Summary
The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center says forecast models point to a possible disruption of the polar vortex in early November, potentially involving sudden stratospheric warming. Such a disruption could make Arctic air outbreaks more likely in the United States later in November or in December, but it does not guarantee a major cold snap, and forecasts remain uncertain.Key Facts
- The polar vortex is a band of winds high in the atmosphere that helps keep cold air concentrated around the Arctic.
- Sudden stratospheric warming rapidly heats air above the Arctic and can weaken or reverse the winds around the pole.
- The Climate Prediction Center said models indicate a possible disruption during the first week of November.
- If a disruption occurs, its effects could last up to two months and alter weather patterns.
- The CPC said the Southeast could see a weather pattern shift toward cooler conditions near the end of November, but the timing and strength are uncertain.
- The ongoing El Niño is expected to remain the main large-scale climate influence, while the possible vortex disruption adds uncertainty, especially for the eastern United States.
- A weakened polar vortex can allow cold Arctic air to move farther south, but predicting where and when that may happen is difficult.
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