The polar vortex is an area of cold air around the Arctic.
high
definition
Basic meteorological definition of the polar vortex.
The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is an eastward-moving pulse of clouds, rainfall, winds, and pressure.
high
definition
Description of the MJO as a tropical intraseasonal variability mode.
Multiple scientific studies suggest polar vortex excursions may be becoming more likely as global temperatures rise, but the relationship remains an area of active research.
medium
scientific_uncertainty
Summarizes the current state of research on links between Arctic warming and polar vortex behavior.
Disruption of the stratospheric polar vortex is a natural process that occurs almost every winter or every few winters.
medium
process
Characterizes the typical frequency of stratospheric polar vortex disruptions.