Frigid Cold to Impact the U.S. as Polar Vortex Surges Southward

A significant cold wave is set to affect much of the United States as polar air masses from Siberia arrive. Forecasts indicate dangerously low temperatures reaching minus-20 to minus-30 degrees in certain areas, raising concerns of winter storms and adverse weather. Over 105 million individuals may experience subzero temperatures in the coming weeks, drawing comparisons to the notable polar vortex of January 2014.

This winter has begun with colder than average temperatures across most states east of the Rocky Mountains, and further frigid air is on its way. Polar air masses originating from Siberia are expected to reach the northern Rockies on Saturday, subsequently moving south and east, affecting much of the United States by Monday. The arrival of these conditions may bring dangerously low temperatures, dropping to between minus-20 and minus-30 degrees Fahrenheit in certain areas, while raising the likelihood of new storm formation as warm, moist air interacts with the cold air.

January has already seen above-average snowfall in over 15 states, partly due to two significant winter storms earlier this month. As more snowstorms are anticipated over the next week, this could increase already impressive snowfall totals across various regions. A weather disturbance may emerge along the Mid-Atlantic coast on Sunday, bringing potential snow from Washington, D.C. to Boston, resulting in significant impacts on public transit and outdoor activities.

Following this weekend, heavy lake-effect snow may develop near the Great Lakes, expected to linger for several days. Concurrently, another snowstorm may evolve in the southern Plains, impacting areas in Colorado and New Mexico, which could extend its reach into Texas and the Deep South, potentially delivering further winter weather to cities already affected by recent storms.

More than 105 million people across 40 states may be impacted by subzero temperatures over the next two weeks as extremely cold polar air enters the Midwest and Plains. Forecasts indicate temperatures could plunge as low as minus-20 to minus-30 degrees in multiple states, with wind chill factors making them feel even colder. Such conditions pose severe risks, including frostbite and hypothermia.

Looking back, the polar vortex of January 2014 is a stark comparison. That year witnessed over 140 million people across about 40 states experiencing subzero temperatures. Comparatively, while this current cold wave may not affect as many individuals, anticipated weather patterns still hold considerable significance for the population and the forecasts suggest a snowier February ahead for many Northern states.

Recent weather patterns indicate an unusual bout of frigid temperatures across the United States, particularly affecting regions east of the Rocky Mountains. The phenomenon known as the polar vortex is bringing in colder air masses from Siberia, thus resulting in significant temperature drops and potential for associated winter storms. Previous polar vortex episodes have led to extreme weather, notably in January 2014, where widespread subzero temperatures occurred across the Midwest and beyond, making this winter’s forecast quite notable as well.

In summary, the impending cold wave and its associated conditions warrant serious attention due to the potential for dangerously low temperatures and hazardous winter weather impacting over 105 million people. As colder air masses from Siberia move across the United States, the likelihood of significant snowfall and icy conditions is increasing, with essential weather details expected to emerge in the coming days. The historical perspective illustrates a pattern of severe winter conditions reminiscent of previous polar vortex events, underscoring the need for preparedness.

Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com