Climate change causes Polar Vortex to venture south
this.
this right here is why it's called "climate change." Arctic warming = deep freeze in the temperate regions, because Arctic ice melting warms the ocean up there, messing with the Jet Stream and driving the cold air mass southward
stories that go into depth:
"What’s Behind the ‘Arctic Blast’ Plunging into the U.S.?" - Scientific American
"How Frigid Polar Vortex Blasts are Connected to Global Warming" - CitizenTruth.org
not only was 2023 officially the hottest year on record by a long shot (1.5°C above preindustrial levels), but this winter is on track to be one of the coldest
Interesting Times we live in, folks
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I would like to announce to everyone that it is currently
O n e
✨Fucking degree✨
(Fahrenheit)
in Middle Tennessee.
That is correct, you’ve read that right:
One.
(1° F.)
Degree :))
Not to catastrophize without cause, but if there has been a clearer sign of climate apocalypse (in this part of the U.S. anyway). I do not recall it 🙂
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We're surviving the Arctic blast with our trusty space heater and lots of cuddles. Stay warm and stay safe!
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The Chilling Effect of the Polar Vortex: A Winter Phenomenon Strikes Regina, Saskatchewan, and Beyond
Shaina Tranquilino
January 20, 2024
As winter settles in across the Northern Hemisphere, intense cold snaps and frosty weather systems are not uncommon. However, every few years, a particularly extreme weather event occurs that captures headlines worldwide – the polar vortex. Recently, this frigid phenomenon has unleashed its icy grip on numerous regions, including Regina, Saskatchewan in Canada. In this blog post, we will explore what exactly the polar vortex is, how it affects our lives, and why it's important to understand this chilling meteorological occurrence.
Understanding the Polar Vortex:
The polar vortex is an area of low pressure situated near the Earth's poles. It is characterized by strong winds circulating counterclockwise around a center of extremely cold air. These winds form a tight spiral pattern high up in the atmosphere known as the jet stream.
Normally confined to the Arctic region during winter months, occasionally these powerful winds weaken or shift southward due to complex atmospheric dynamics. This results in a sudden intrusion of bitterly cold arctic air into lower latitudes — a phenomenon experts refer to as a "polar outbreak" or "polar vortex event."
The Impact on Regina and Beyond:
Regina, located in central Canada's prairies and often referred to as one of the coldest cities in the country, experienced firsthand the brutal effects of the polar vortex. As temperatures plummeted well below freezing point (reaching as low as -50°C), everyday life ground to a halt. Transportation was disrupted or delayed, and residents were advised to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
But Regina wasn't alone; other parts of North America also fell under the influence of this winter nightmare. States such as Texas faced unprecedented snowfall and record-breaking low temperatures that crippled infrastructure unprepared for extreme winter conditions. Similarly, Europe witnessed heavy snowfalls and sub-zero temperatures, causing travel chaos and affecting millions of people.
Coping with the Vortex:
During a polar vortex event, it is crucial to prioritize safety and take appropriate measures to protect oneself from the extreme cold. Staying indoors, dressing in layers, ensuring adequate heating, and avoiding unnecessary exposure are all vital precautions. Furthermore, maintaining communication with neighbours, especially vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or those without proper shelter, becomes essential.
Understanding Climate Change's Role:
While it may seem counterintuitive that global warming could cause severe cold spells like the polar vortex event, climate change plays a role in its occurrence. The melting Arctic ice due to rising global temperatures weakens the jet stream, causing it to become wavier and allowing frigid air masses to escape the poles more frequently. As a result, these events can intensify due to climate change but remain sporadic and unpredictable.
The recent polar vortex event has left Regina and various parts of the world shivering in an icy grip. Understanding this meteorological phenomenon helps us recognize its impact on our daily lives while appreciating the importance of preparedness during such extreme weather events. By taking necessary precautions and fostering community support, we can navigate through these frosty times together until warmer days return.
Note: It is important to keep up with local news sources and official guidelines regarding any current or future polar vortex events for accurate information and safety instructions in your specific region.
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Wow the weather forecast wasn’t kidding when they said the “Arctic blast” would be hitting my area around 8:00 this morning. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced such a rapid temperature change in such a short amount of time before. I was walking out of the grocery store this morning when the cold front literally blew in. The temp went from above freezing (light jacket) to below freezing (winter coat)in a matter of minutes. O_o. I guess that’s winter in Texas.
I’m just glad I got all my errands done and I’m off for a few days. 😁. Stay safe everyone
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hey so apparently my family heard meowing from outside earlier. it's 17 degrees. they couldn't find a cat anywhere, but the point still stands: LET YOUR PETS INSIDE DURING EXTREME WEATHER. stay safe and warm this week, bundle up, conserve energy - especially in texas! we all remember what happened in 2021!!! luckily it isn't snowing where i am, but i'm not sure about anyone else. just stay safe and take care of your animals.
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The arctic invasion continues unabated with the cold front surging south through the Plains and Midwest at this hour.
The deep chill will go all the way through the Gulf, with much below normal temperatures all the way to Yucatán in the coming days.
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We're gonna experience another historic arctic blast this week that's gonna drive wind chill temps below zero (having winter storm Uri flashbacks) I hope the power grid doesn't collapse again. Stay warm fellow Texans
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