How an Early Breakdown of the Polar Vortex Could Mean a Cold December

Do not let the warm autumn season fool you. Meteorologists are warning that the infamous polar vortex could weaken earlier than usual this season, impacting many of the weather patterns for the U.S. this December. Here is what you need to know.

Understanding the Behavior of the Polar Vortex

Last week's cold snap was not a good reflection of the unseasonal warmth that characterized much of the fall. While dozens of daily record lows were either tied or broken in the eastern and southern U.S., the mass of cold air retreated quickly.

However, December is shaping up to be a chilly start to the meteorological winter for the majority of the country, thanks to an early breakdown of the polar vortex. The term "polar vortex" entered the nation's vernacular in January 2014 after a particularly robust outbreak of frigid air. Although the term did not pick up steam until that time, scientists have long known about the impacts of the polar vortex.