We break down what the polar vortex actually is, including the tropospheric and stratospheric components and how their wind strength keeps frigid air bottled at the poles. We then explore Sudden Stratospheric Warmings, how they can weaken or split the vortex, and how that can drive deep, widespread cold and heavy snow across the US, Europe, and Asia. Along the way we draw connections to planetary weather in our solar system and explain why these high-altitude dynamics matter for forecasts and resilience.

Note: This podcast was AI-generated, and sometimes AI can make mistakes. Please double-check any critical information.

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