Polar Vortex Archives

What is a polar vortex? US gets a taste of the Arctic this week

The term “polar vortex” usually refers to the gigantic circular upper air weather pattern in the Arctic region, enveloping the North Pole. It is a normal pattern that is stronger in the winter and keeps some of the coldest weather bottled up near the North Pole. But at times some of the vortex can break off or move south, bringing unusually cold weather south and permitting warmer weather to creep up north. This week, parts of the U.S. are experiencing the 10th and coldest polar vortex event this season. Weather forces in the Arctic are combining to push the chilly air that usually stays near the North Pole into the U.S. and Europe.… Continue Reading

Polar vortex keeps much of the US in its icy grip

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Much of the U.S. is being blasted by ice, snow and wind, as the polar vortex that dipped south over the weekend is keeping an area stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the coast of Maine in its frigid grip. By Monday, the wintry weather had made many roads treacherous, forced school closures, and caused widespread power outages and flight cancellations. Road conditions began deteriorating Sunday in several Midwestern states, with forecasts calling for harsh conditions to spread eastward in the coming days. In Indiana, the National Guard was activated to help stranded motorists. The storm is expected to bring bitter cold to the entire Eastern Seaboard.… Continue Reading