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Frigid December Ahead: Polar Vortex to Chill U.S.

12/1/2025

32 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The National Weather Service forecasts below-normal temperatures for the northern and northeastern United States this December, with subzero lows possible.
Climatologist Judah Cohen notes that the polar vortex will drive an overall frigid December, with the coldest period peaking in the third week.
Florida is cooler, while a nationwide pattern splits between colder and warmer areas, and snowfall remains unlikely.

History

Historical Context

The January–March 2014 cold wave in the United States resulted from a weakened polar vortex, allowing Arctic air to plunge southward. This extreme weather event affected over 200 million people, with cities like Chicago recording temperatures as low as -16°F. The long-term implications of such patterns raise concerns about climate change and its influence on seasonal weather variability.

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Story summary

The National Weather Service forecasts below-normal temperatures for the northern and northeastern United States this December, with subzero lows possible.
Climatologist Judah Cohen notes that the polar vortex will drive an overall frigid December, with the coldest period peaking in the third week.
Florida is cooler, while a nationwide pattern splits between colder and warmer areas, and snowfall remains unlikely.

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