JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The term "Arctic blast," coined by the media refers to a rapid southward push of cold air from the poles, extending beyond its usual reach.
The phenomenon is linked to the current phase of the polar vortex or Arctic low within the Arctic Oscillation (AO). The Arctic Oscillation involves a continuous fluctuation between strong and weak areas of low pressure at the poles.
In the negative (- AO) phase, the weakened low allows cold air to escape, breaking off and streaming into mid-latitudes propelled by strong westward winds.
This week's impact on the U.S. is nothing short of record-breaking. The Arctic Blast is set to bring temperatures below zero and bring snow and wintry precipitation stretching from Texas to New York.
The extreme conditions have even led the Buffalo Bills to postpone their wild card game against the Steelers to Monday, with parts of western New York anticipating over three feet of snow. Jacksonville, not spared from the cold, will experience lows in the 20s by Wednesday.
As the Arctic Blast continues its relentless journey across the United States, plunging temperatures and wintry conditions grip the nation in an icy embrace.
