AccuWeather long-range forecasters are warning that a significant shift in the weather pattern could bring a blast of frigid Arctic air to parts of the United States in the second half of March, potentially lingering into early April.
“Don’t put your winter jacket and gloves away just yet,” cautioned AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok. “Many parts of the central and eastern U.S. will see a surge of springlike warmth next week, but the polar vortex could contribute to a sharp drop in temperatures across parts of the U.S. during the week of March 17.”
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The Polar Vortex Explained
The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air that surrounds both of Earth’s poles. It is typically held in place by strong winds, but occasionally, these winds weaken, allowing the vortex to wobble or even split, sending frigid Arctic air southward.
While not every cold snap is directly linked to the polar vortex, when it does weaken, it can lead to some of the most extreme cold spells of the winter season.
A “sudden stratospheric warming event” is expected to occur next week, weakening the winds that confine the polar vortex. This will cause the vortex to shift, allowing cold air to spill into North America and Eurasia.
AccuWeather forecasters believe this shift could impact the U.S. around the middle of March, with potential lingering effects into early April.
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Potential Impacts:
- Springtime Snowstorms: The cold air could set the stage for significant snowstorms in the eastern U.S. around St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
- Higher Energy Bills: A prolonged period of colder weather could lead to increased heating costs for residents.
- Limited Severe Weather: The colder pattern may suppress severe weather development in the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley.
AccuWeather’s long-range forecasters had predicted last fall that the transition from winter to spring would be the most likely period for the polar vortex to unleash cold air into the U.S.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and be prepared for the possibility of a late-season cold blast and potential snowstorms.
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