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Winter's Not Over Yet: Climate Scientist Warns of Round 2 of Winter

Matt Coleman

By Matt Coleman

Published January 25, 2024

As the deadly cold outbreak is followed by a taste of spring, climate scientist Judah Cohen warns that it's not time to 'put a fork into winter' just yet. He cautions that round 2 of winter could be on the horizon, emphasizing the influence of the polar vortex on the weather.

Repetition of Weather Patterns

Cohen likens the situation to 'déjà vu all over again,' anticipating a rinse, lather, repeat scenario with record low snow levels and warm temperatures followed by a return of record cold. He forecasts the likely return of cold to eastern North America in mid-February, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of the previous warm spell in the region.

The Polar Vortex Effect

Cohen explains that the polar vortex, a band of strong winds circling the North Pole, plays a crucial role in determining the distribution of arctic air. He anticipates a milder end of January due to the polar vortex regaining stability and receding cold air back towards the North Pole.

Sudden Stratospheric Warming and Its Impact

The climate scientist discusses sudden stratospheric warming, which triggered the January arctic blast, and forecasts a good chance of its repetition in February. He explains that this phenomenon, occurring in the stratosphere about 19 miles above the surface, leads to weather changes felt at the surface about two weeks later.

Anticipating Another Arctic Blast

Cohen anticipates a mild pattern followed by a relaxing pattern, indicating the likelihood of another arctic blast and widespread snow in the second week of February or even mid-February. He emphasizes that the intensity and duration of the cold weather associated with the stretched polar vortex are yet to be determined.