US Faces Brutal Cold: Polar Vortex Hits December
The United States is gearing up for an intense cold spell this December as a series of Arctic outbreaks, fueled by a polar vortex, are expected to hit the country. AccuWeather has predicted three separate rounds of extremely cold weather, with temperatures plummeting and snow showers expected across several states.
According to Paul Pastelok, a meteorologist at AccuWeather, the first wave of cold air will arrive this week, with another expected next week, and a third the week following. This means that the central and eastern US will likely face a prolonged period of bitter cold, affecting energy demands significantly.
The Upper Midwest and Northern Plains are already experiencing the cold air moving south from Canada. Wind chills in these areas could drop to between minus 10 and minus 25 degrees. The intense cold will then spread to the eastern US, with snow flurries and squalls likely accompanying the frigid front, especially around the Great Lakes and northern Appalachians.
The polar vortex is essentially a ring of low-pressure winds around the Arctic, containing the coldest air near the North Pole. When this system weakens, it can send frigid air southward into the US, Europe, or Asia. Typically, the jet stream keeps this cold air confined near the pole, but disturbances can lead to significant temperature drops across the US.
As the cold intensifies, the risk of frostbite increases, especially with strong winds. The National Weather Service calculates the wind chill index to assess how dangerous conditions may become. This index combines the outdoor temperature with wind speed to give a clear picture of how quickly the body loses warmth in chilly conditions.
Forecasts indicate that the Central, Midwest, and Eastern US will be hit hardest by this Arctic air. States like North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska can expect rapid temperature drops and prolonged cold. Meanwhile, the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, including New York and Pennsylvania, will also face sharp cold blasts and possible snow or mixed winter precipitation.
While many regions brace for severe cold, some areas, like parts of the Mountain West, may escape the worst of the freezing temperatures. As the situation unfolds, it is essential for everyone to stay updated on weather conditions and prepare for potentially life-threatening weather.
