Polar Vortex

A polar vortex is a large, rotating area of low-pressure air surrounding the Earth's poles, primarily in the Arctic and Antarctic. It contains cold air and winds that circle the polar regions in the stratosphere and upper atmosphere. Occasionally, the vortex weakens or expands, allowing frigid air to spill southward into lower latitudes, causing cold weather events in North America, Europe, and Asia. Usually, it remains stable and contained near the poles. The polar vortex is a natural part of Earth's climate system, influencing seasonal weather patterns and temperatures worldwide.