Arctic Blast Grips U.S. as 10th Polar Vortex of the Season Brings Freezing Temperatures

file photo by Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, a deep freeze is set to grip most of the U.S. this week, as yet another polar vortex plunges temperatures well below freezing across the country. This marks the 10th time this winter that the polar vortex has dipped into the lower 48 states—far exceeding the typical two to three occurrences per season.

Unprecedented Polar Vortex Activity

Meteorologists say the repeated intrusions of Arctic air are linked to a weakened and destabilized polar jet stream, which has become increasingly wavy, allowing frigid air to spill southward. While the exact cause remains uncertain, the pattern has led to one of the coldest and most active winter seasons in recent history.

Bitter Cold and Heavy Snow Expected

The latest Arctic blast is expected to bring:

• Subzero temperatures in the Dakotas and Upper Midwest, with lows dipping below -10°F.
• Near-zero temperatures in states stretching from Kansas to Maine.
• Southern cities like Atlanta and Austin potentially reaching the teens.
• Heavy snow and ice in the Mid-Atlantic by Wednesday, with several inches expected.

Winter Storm Preparedness

With dangerous cold and wintry conditions ahead, residents are urged to prepare for icy roads, power outages, and extreme wind chills. Keep emergency supplies on hand and stay updated with the latest weather alerts.