An arctic blast is poised to sweep across the United States, bringing frigid temperatures and icy conditions in its wake. According to FOX Weather Meteorologist Kendall Smith, the polar vortex is expected to shift southwards, allowing a surge of cold, arctic air to plunge into the Lower 48 states.

The FOX Forecast Center predicts that this arctic blast will likely be the coldest air experienced in the Lower 48 so far this winter season. The chilling temperatures are projected to descend upon the Intermountain West by late week before settling over the central US early next week.

Weather experts anticipate that the freezing conditions will persist for an extended period. Some locations could witness weekend temperatures plummeting to 30-50 degrees below the average for this time of year. Dangerously low wind chills of up to -50 degrees are expected in several places.

The Climate Prediction Center's temperature outlook reveals that the below-average temperatures are likely to endure through January 18 in cities such as Minneapolis, Kansas City, Little Rock, Nashville, and Chicago.

This chilling weather pattern marks a stark contrast to the mild winter that the US has experienced thus far. It is partly attributed to the influence of El Niño, which typically brings warmer and drier conditions to the northern part of the country, while causing the jet stream to flow more west to east. However, recent events, such as a minor stratospheric warming in the Arctic, have disrupted the polar vortex and allowed the cold air to spill southward.

The polar vortex, a band of powerful winds encircling the North Pole, normally maintains a stable spin, trapping the arctic air in place. However, when disruptions occur, such as sudden stratospheric warming, the polar vortex weakens, causing it to shift southward and enabling the spread of cold air. In the past, these events have been associated with negative Arctic oscillation and have resulted in extreme weather episodes, like the Great Texas Freeze in 2021.

While the duration of this cold spell remains uncertain, experts warn that the impact could extend beyond a week. Recent indications suggest that the minor warming in the Arctic may further reinforce the chances of enduring colder weather patterns in the coming weeks.

As the nation braces itself for this arctic blast, it is advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe amidst the bone-chilling temperatures that lie ahead.