The polar vortex is a large area of cold air and low pressure that typically resides over the North and South Poles
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. During the winter months, when the jet stream allows, this cold air can drop farther down into lower latitudes, such as the United States
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. This phenomenon is known as a polar vortex outbreak, and it can bring brutally cold temperatures to regions that are not accustomed to such extreme cold
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.
The polar vortex is currently making headlines as it is set to bring life-threatening cold to much of the United States
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. This outbreak is expected to start this weekend and continue into next week, bringing below-freezing temperatures to many parts of the country
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. More than 120 million people could face bone-chilling conditions, with some areas experiencing temperatures below minus-10 degrees Fahrenheit
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. The National Weather Service has warned that the arctic blast will first hit the Rockies and Great Plains, then move southward to the Deep South and Great Lakes, and finally reach the Eastern Seaboard by Sunday night
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The impact of the polar vortex is not just limited to cold temperatures. The extreme cold can cause pipes to freeze and burst, disrupt traffic, trigger flight cancellations, and increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite
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. In addition, the cold air can put a strain on the power grid, leading to potential power outages
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The polar vortex is also expected to bring snow and ice to many regions
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. Snowfall is forecasted in areas from the Rockies to the Northeast, with some places seeing up to six inches of snow
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. The combination of snow and cold temperatures can create hazardous conditions, making travel difficult and dangerous.
Despite the frigid temperatures, the polar vortex can also have some interesting effects. For example, it can cause temperatures to drop by as much as 45 degrees below average in some areas, leading to below-zero temperatures across at least 20 states
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. This extreme cold can even reach the Deep South, with areas like Atlanta experiencing freezing temperatures
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.
The polar vortex is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather. It is essential to take precautions, such as dressing warmly, keeping your home heated, and having emergency supplies on hand. Stay informed by checking weather forecasts and following the advice of local authorities.
For more information and updates on the polar vortex, you can watch this informative video on YouTube: Polar Vortex 2025: Brutal Cold Hits the U.S.
Stay warm and safe during this cold snap!
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www.cbsnews.com
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www.foxweather.com
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Fast Company
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USA TODAY | MSN
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