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Earliest Arctic warming event raises UK cold snap risk

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 13 Nov, 17:44 · Archive

BBC Weather reports the earliest recorded sudden stratospheric warming above the North Pole could increase the risk of cold weather and snow in the UK.

BBC Weather reports that an unprecedented early sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event has occurred above the North Pole—the earliest ever recorded. The polar vortex's usual westerly winds have reversed direction and turned easterly, an event that could raise the risk of cold snaps and snow across the UK.

A sudden stratospheric warming occurs when strong winds high above the Arctic reverse and disrupt the jet stream that influences UK weather. BBC Weather stated: 'The spiralling winds of the polar vortex high above the Arctic have reversed direction, marking the earliest major sudden stratospheric warming on record. Similar disruptions can occur during winter and are often linked with colder weather in the UK. But this event happening so early in autumn is unprecedented in modern observations.'

While such events do not guarantee cold weather at ground level, they can increase the risk of high pressure developing over Greenland or Scandinavia, which can lead to cold easterly winds reaching the UK. Northerly winds could also bring Arctic air south, increasing the risk of frost, ice and wintry showers.

Essex, as an eastern county, could be particularly exposed to cold air and snow showers moving in from the North Sea if the right conditions develop. The Met Office has previously reported early signs of disruption in the polar vortex, suggesting that an SSW was developing earlier than usual. The Met Office also noted that a developing El Niño event in the Pacific may be contributing to the disturbance.

Earliest Arctic warming event raises UK cold snap risk
Image: Colchester Gazette

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In this story: BBC Weather · Met Office · Essex · UK · North Pole

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