What An Early Polar Vortex Combined With El Niño Means For Winter Weather
A record-early breakdown of the polar vortex is expected to bring cold weather to the United States by the end of the month. The expected wobble in the polar vortex that sends Arctic temperatures south, however, could be in competition with the strong El Niño forecast for this winter —but experts say that how it will impact our weather remains to be seen. What is the polar vortex? The polar…
The polar vortex, a low-pressure band of air over the North Pole, typically maintains a stable rotation, but a recent early breakdown is causing cold air to migrate southward, potentially leading to severe winter weather in the United States. This phenomenon, known as sudden stratospheric warming, occurs when the polar vortex weakens and temperatures in the stratosphere surge.
The breakdown of the polar vortex is currently the earliest on record, usually occurring in the latter half of winter. While a strong El Niño forecast for the winter adds another layer of complexity to the upcoming weather patterns, its impact on the polar vortex's behavior remains uncertain. El Niño years historically bring milder temperatures, but the extent to which El Niño and the polar vortex will interact this winter remains an open question.
If the polar vortex remains strong and circular, El Niño could help moderate the cold weather. However, if the two forces clash, the outcome of the winter will depend on which force prevails. The polar vortex disruption this year is unprecedented, and its potential influence on the upcoming winter weather remains largely unknown.
Written by urgent.news from Time's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
