Meteorologists are warning of worsening polar vortex conditions that could lead to extreme cold and widespread disruption.

Why it matters

So far this winter, much of the northern United States has seen one of the warmest Decembers on record. Although many residents experienced snow around the holidays, the snowpack was still at or near its lowest level in 20 years.

However, the polar vortex could bring severe weather conditions, including heavy snow and freezing temperatures, which could impact travel conditions or lead to school closures.

What you should know

According to temperature outlook data mapped by Pivotal Weather, North Dakota could see temperatures as low as 8 degrees and wind chills as low as -14 degrees on New Year’s Day. Meanwhile, other states like Minnesota, Montana and Wyoming could see temperatures in the teens.

Surrounding states such as Colorado, Idaho, Washington, South Dakota, Iowa and Michigan will also be hit by the polar vortex, with very cold temperatures in the 20s and 30s predicted on New Year’s Day.

A polar vortex is a stream of cold air that usually swirls around the poles high in the stratosphere. The phenomenon that is blowing arctic air across part of North America can disrupt weather patterns.

As the polar vortex weakens, the eastern United States may experience colder weather. When there is a sudden warming of the stratosphere, the vortex expands or even splits, with its center away from the pole. The expansion causes the air to “escape” into the atmosphere, making the winter even colder.

AccuWeather reported that the vortex could produce “some of the coldest air of the season” in February.

What people say

Meteorologist Ryan Maue said on X, formerly Twitter: “And just as I realized that the ‘Arctic cold’ was not of ‘old-fashioned’ vintage, the GFS 18z temperature drops to -36°C at 850 MB in the middle of the US. That would be crazy. The weather model lasts forever.” Right here. (GFS 18z) This solution must also disappear immediately.

Jim Cantore, also a meteorologist, said on X: “The eastern United States is experiencing an extended period of cold, only made worse by the blanket of snow that accompanies each shot. The polar vortex is parking over eastern Canada in the first few weeks of 2025, allowing these cold shots to slide southeast and dominate.” Weather east of the Rocky Mountains may be around the 9th/10th. January around is the coldest.

Meteorologist Mark Margavage said on X: “Woah… now that’s COLD! Is the South ready to visit the polar vortex? Like I said the other day… PREPARE! This is true for everyone, but especially if you live in an area that isn’t used to seeing brutally cold air, put together a winter survival kit and keep it in your car. Take things like warm winter clothes, a warm blanket, hand warmers and spare batteries for your cell phones.”

What happens next

The National Weather Service has advised the public to check the weather forecast for their area on Weather.gov to ensure they are appropriately dressed. The agency said that while news of the polar vortex was not cause for concern, people should be prepared for colder temperatures.