In 2014, the term “polar vortex” gained attention in Canada and the U.S. as temperatures dropped significantly. Some areas experienced temperatures colder than those on Mars.
Now, there is anticipation of the phenomenon affecting Western and Central Canada, with potential movement toward Eastern Canada. Judah Cohen, a climatologist at MIT, highlighted a notable cold pattern emerging in the latest European model, mentioning cities like Calgary and Winnipeg.
The polar vortex, a constant presence in the upper atmosphere, typically stays in the north. However, during winter, it can destabilize and extend southward, interacting with the jet stream in the troposphere, leading to colder temperatures.
Michael Sigmond from ECCC explained that every couple of years, the polar vortex experiences disruptions, resulting in significant warming and a shift in wind patterns.
Various types of polar vortexes exist, such as sudden stratospheric warming, which causes warming in the upper atmosphere and disrupts the flow, bringing cold air southward. The exact type of polar vortex event expected remains uncertain, with some speculating a sudden stratospheric warming event, potentially setting a record if it occurs.
Despite the specific type of polar vortex event, the outcome is expected to bring cold weather. The path it will take after affecting Western and Central Canada remains a significant question.