A detailed analysis of polar vortex collapse mechanisms and how they relate to occasional North American cold outbreaks.

What we call the polar vortex -- a spin in the atmosphere -- can't actually be felt in the U.S. or anywhere on Earth. It doesnâ t ice over too often ...

However, a disruption in the vortex – known as "sudden stratospheric warming" – back in mid-March will finally be making its way down to the surface in the eastern U.S. next week, Cohen said.

Polar Vortex forecast from March 6 to March 20, 2025. (source: Judah Cohen, AER) Judah Cohen The stratosphere actually warms an incredible amount in a short time during these SSW’s.

Record cold temperatures were set from Ohio to Virginia, and all the way up to New England. You may remember when the term polar vortex became popular last winter.

However, a disruption in the vortex – known as "sudden stratospheric warming" – back in mid-March will finally be making its way down to the surface in the eastern U.S. next week, Cohen said.

When high pressure builds into the Arctic Circle, the polar vortex is pushed south and away from the pole, giving it an opportunity to sink into the United States.

Weather Predictions of a weaker polar vortex this winter could mean more extreme weather Published: Jul. 10, 2025, 12:32 p.m.

Why has April in Chicago been cold so far? A big factor is the disruptions in the polar vortex, even as the “polar vortex season” is winding down, according to NBC 5 Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes ...