Polar vortex will bring dangerous arctic air to the United States. Colder temperatures will persist for weeks. More than 170 million people will face extreme weather.
Cold air will affect much of the United States. This weather phenomenon will create severe winter conditions. North America will experience a deep and prolonged winter feeling.
What is the Polar Vortex?
The polar vortex is a cold wind system. It normally keeps frigid air near the poles. When working properly, it protects the mid-latitudes from extreme cold.
A strong polar vortex acts as a barrier. It encloses the colder air in the polar regions. However, when it weakens or shifts, it changes everything.
Current Vortex Displacement
This time the vortex has stretched. It has not weakened significantly. This elongation has important consequences for the climate.
Cold air cannot consolidate in a single region. It is dispersed over a wide geographic area. This generates longer than normal cold periods.
The displaced vortex will maintain cold temperatures over North America. The eastern United States will experience prolonged cold. This situation will continue through the end of January.
Forecast for the coming weeks
Weather models show major changes. The two lobes of the vortex could recombine. This would strengthen the overall system.
Direct channel of frigid air
The core of the vortex could shift toward Canada. This would create a «direct channel» into the United States. Freezing temperatures would flow unimpeded southward.
The initial cold will accumulate in Canada. It will occur late next week. It will then move southward during the last week of January.
Most affected regions
The northern Rockies will face the most intense cold. The Great Plains will also experience extreme temperatures. The Great Lakes and the Northeast will round out the hotspots.
The exact intensity is still uncertain. Meteorologists continue to monitor the situation. Updates will be provided as information improves.
January's big freeze reaches Florida
The southern United States will not escape the cold. Florida will experience a dramatic drop in temperatures. This icy spell is unusual for the Sunshine State.
Drastic change after the thaw
January began with moderate temperatures. There was a brief period of thaw. Now winter returns with renewed strength.
Temperatures will drop well below average. The drop will affect from the Upper Midwest. It will extend into southern Florida this week.
Friday: the coldest day
Friday morning will be the coldest time. Freezing temperatures will reach as high as Jacksonville. Daytona Beach will also experience morning frost.
Tallahassee will reach lows of -3°C. Denver, located 2,623 kilometers to the northwest, will have -3°C. Denver is also 1,571 meters higher in elevation. This comparison shows the exceptional intensity of the cold.
For more information about extreme winter weather preparedness, See our complete guide.
Impact on the Southeast and Midwest
More than 170 million Americans will face extreme cold on Thursday. The Great Lakes will feel the impact. The Northeast will also experience significant drops.
The Southeast will see the most dramatic change. Nashville may not get above 4°C during the day. Atlanta will face similarly low highs. Louisville will round out the trio of hardest-hit cities.
These temperatures are unusual for the region. Residents should be adequately prepared. Authorities recommend taking safety precautions.
See the U.S. National Weather Center. for updated alerts.
Dangerous thermal sensations
Wind chills will worsen conditions. Minneapolis will experience between -23 and -29°C on Sunday. Chicago will face the same extreme wind chill.
Health risks
These temperatures present serious health risks. Hypothermia can develop rapidly. Frostbite of extremities is a real threat.
Experts recommend limiting time outdoors. Wear multiple layers of warm clothing. Especially protect hands, feet and face.
Sporting event in extreme conditions
The NFL divisional playoff game will be played in Chicago. It will be Sunday night. Fans could witness one of the coldest games in history.
This game could break all-time records. It would be one of the Bears' coldest playoff games. Conditions will challenge both players and spectators.
Safety recommendations
Stay informed about local weather conditions. Prepare a winter emergency kit. Include blankets, non-perishable food and water.
Check your heating system before extreme cold. Seal windows and doors to conserve heat. Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Visit the American Red Cross for more winter preparation tips.
Conclusion
The polar vortex will bring weeks of extreme cold. More than 170 million people will be affected. Arctic air will dominate U.S. weather through the end of January.
Dress warmly. The heart of winter lies ahead. This year could be especially frigid. Stay safe and prepared.
Follow Weather Channel for constant weather updates. Our team monitors the polar vortex continuously. We will keep you informed about the latest developments.
