What is a polar vortex simple definition?
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What is a polar vortex simple definition?
The polar vortex is a large circulation of low pressure and cold air that forms every winter in the stratosphere above the North and South poles. The term vortex refers to the counter-clockwise flow of air that helps keep colder air close to the poles (left globe in graphic).
What caused the polar vortex in USA 2019?
Scientists have said that higher temperatures in the Arctic have led to historically low levels of ice there and that this, in turn, has caused changes in the jet stream, forcing the polar vortex to buckle.
When was the polar vortex in the Midwest?
In late January 2019, a severe cold wave caused by a weakened jet stream around the Arctic polar vortex hit the Midwestern United States and Eastern Canada, killing at least 22 people.
How does the polar vortex affect us?
Often when the polar vortex is strong, temperatures are mild in the mid-latitudes across the Eastern US and Northern Eurasia; and when the vortex is weak, temperatures tend to be cold across the Eastern US and northern Europe and Asia.
A new study shows that increases in extreme winter weather in parts of the US are linked to accelerated warming of the Arctic. The scientists found that heating in the region ultimately disturbed the circular pattern of winds known as the polar vortex.
Why is the polar vortex affecting the US?
When the polar vortex weakens or even splits, it allows frigid air to escape and push southward toward the USA, which is forecast to happen over the next few days. The vortex is strongest during the winter and usually weakens or even disappears in the summer.
When was the polar vortex in Illinois?
On January 28, 2019, much of the state woke up to sub-zero Arctic temperatures, caused by the polar vortex.
When did the polar vortex happen in Chicago?
The polar vortex is coming—and raising the odds for intense winter weather. Ice built up along the shore of Lake Michigan as temperatures in January 2019 dipped to around -20 degrees in Chicago, caused by the polar vortex dipping south.
Why is the polar vortex weakening?
Lanzhou researchers found that a loss of sea ice in the Arctic regions due to rising temperatures in the Barents-Kara seas, along with an increase in snow cover over Europe and Asia, has caused the polar vortex to weaken. The pocket of cold air has in turn shifted toward Eurasia.
What states will be affected by the polar vortex?
Polar vortex set to unleash Arctic blast on huge swath of US. Freezing temperatures will hit states ranging from Texas to Washington, D.C. Icy rain and snowfall are expected to affect about 50 million people this week. Southern states warn that such severe weather may impair travel and power.
Why does the polar vortex move?
Low and High Pressure Systems A low pressure system creates winds and cyclones, and things such as the polar vortex. A high pressure system pushes air away into lower pressure areas for balance. When the polar vortex destabilizes, it can push polar air out and away.