7/30/2023 0 Comments Cold weather polar vortex![]() ![]() So, changes in the polar vortex in the stratosphere can affect the strength of the jet stream and as a result whether we get milder or colder weather in winter. The term 'vortex' refers to the counter-clockwise flow of air that helps keep the colder air near the Poles. It ALWAYS exists near the poles, but weakens in summer and strengthens in winter. This has been linked to many spells of cold winter weather in recent years. Cold Resources The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth's poles. Sometimes the polar vortex can even break down entirely, in an event called a ‘ Sudden Stratospheric Warming’. A weaker jet stream allows more frequent spells of northerly or easterly winds to affect the UK and in winter these bring very cold air from the Arctic and continental Europe. With a stronger jet stream, stormy and very wet weather tends to occur. ![]() In a typical UK winter, the jet stream brings winds from the west giving us our mild, damp climate. The jet stream is a fast moving ribbon of air around 5 to 7 miles (8 to 11km) above the earth that drives weather systems from the Atlantic towards the UK.Ĭonversely, when the polar vortex weakens, the jet stream also tends to weaken and become distorted. It is also a good idea to check the items in your home and car emergency kits at the beginning of each winter season to ensure you are prepared for any type of hazardous winter weather.How does the Polar Vortex affect our weather?Ī strong polar vortex favours a strong jet stream. Check the forecast for your area on to ensure you are dressed appropriately. In short, there is no cause to be alarmed when you hear about the polar vortex, but you should be prepared for colder temperatures. By itself, the only danger to humans is the magnitude of how cold temperatures will get when the polar vortex expands, sending Arctic air southward into areas that are not typically that cold. Portions of Europe and Asia also experience cold surges connected to the polar vortex. This is not confined to the United States. Weather forecasters examine the polar vortex by looking at conditions tens of thousands of feet up in the atmosphere however, when we feel extremely cold air from the Arctic regions at Earth’s surface, it is sometimes associated with the polar vortex. It is also not a feature that exists at the Earth’s surface. The term “polar vortex” has only recently been popularized, bringing attention to a weather feature that has always been present. There are several things the polar vortex is NOT. The one that occurred January 2014 is similar to many other cold outbreaks that have occurred in the past, including several notable colder outbreaks in 1977, 1982, 19. This occurs fairly regularly during wintertime and is often associated with large outbreaks of Arctic air in the United States. Many times during winter in the northern hemisphere, the polar vortex will expand, sending cold air southward with the jet stream (see graphic above). The term "vortex" refers to the counter-clockwise flow of air that helps keep the colder air near the Poles. ![]() The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles. ![]()
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