As we inch closer to the spring equinox, with days getting longer and more sunshine gracing our skies, the polar vortex is once again poised to descend over much of the United States. This time, it’s expected to be even colder than previous episodes. Meteorologists are warning that the upcoming influx of Arctic air will be the coldest burst this season, adding a chilling exclamation point to an already frigid winter.
This will mark the tenth time this winter that the polar vortex—typically containing the coldest Arctic air at the North Pole—stretches southward, impacting the United States. According to Judah Cohen, the seasonal forecast director at Atmospheric and Environmental Research, in a typical winter, this phenomenon might occur two or three times. However, this winter has been far from typical.
Different weather forces in the Arctic are combining to push this frigid air not only into the United States but also Europe. Several meteorologists have noted that the forces usually keeping the coldest Arctic air contained are weakening, allowing it to stretch south like a rubber band. This phenomenon has led to an unprecedented number of polar vortex invasions this season.
The effects of this winter’s weather have been felt across the country. New Orleans experienced record snowfall, while Southern California faced drought conditions and destructive wildfires. These extreme weather events highlight the abnormality of this winter season.
- 10th Influx: This will be the tenth instance of the polar vortex impacting the U.S. this winter.
- Arctic Air: The coldest burst of Arctic air this season is expected to hit next week.
- Geographical Reach: The polar vortex is affecting not just the U.S. but also parts of Europe.
- Record Snowfall: New Orleans saw record snowfall this winter.
- Wildfires: Southern California has faced destructive wildfires and drought conditions.
The upcoming polar vortex will add to an already extraordinary winter, bringing another wave of Arctic air to the United States. As we prepare for more cold days ahead, the impacts of this severe weather continue to unfold across the country.
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