In January 2024, a polar vortex (also known as a “bomb cyclone” or “freeze event”) covered a big portion of the continental United States, bringing frigid temperatures, dangerously low wind chill, and snow across the Northeast, Midwest, and South.
But what exactly is a polar vortex? What causes a polar vortex? And more importantly, how can you prepare for it?
What is a Polar Vortex?
A polar vortex as “a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles.” (The counterclockwise swirl of air is why it’s called a “vortex.”)
In other words, with a polar vortex, Arctic air comes southward, potentially reaching areas that might not usually get very cold, like the southern United States. Notably, polar vortexes can also occur in Europe and Asia.
How Cold Does a Polar Vortex Get?
Since polar vortexes can be so large, how cold they get largely depends on where you live. Pay attention to your local weather and make sure you take precautions when freezing conditions are on the way, because there are steps you can take to prepare for the cold.
What Happens During a Polar Vortex?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s SciJinks states that a standard polar vortex is a “low pressure system of rotating cold air, parked at the north and south poles. During a polar vortex, the air pressure weakens, making the jet stream loosen. The cold air goes southward, bringing cold weather to different regions.”
How Long Does a Polar Vortex Last?
While some polar vortexes last for weeks, there’s no exact answer, since it depends on varying weather conditions.
How Do You Prepare for a Polar Vortex?
A few cold weather tips:
- Keep an eye on your local weather and use resources like The Weather Channel and the National Weather Service for updates.
- Fill up your gas tank.
- Put together a winter emergency kit for your car, including food, water, flashlights, jumper cables, a radio, a shovel, an ice scraper, blankets, and more.
- Dress for frigid conditions if you go outside. For chilly weather, wear 1-2 layers, long pants, and warm shoes. For cold weather, wear 2-3 layers, a warm hat, gloves, 1-2 layers of pants, and waterproof boots. For extremely cold weather, wear 2-3 layers (including an insulating layer), a warm hat, a face mask, gloves, 1-2 layers of pants, and waterproof boots.
- If you can, adjust your schedule so you only go outside when necessary. Avoid going outside in the early morning and late at night (when it’s usually coldest).
- Check on pets and livestock, making sure they have adequate shelter, food, and water.
- If temperatures are supposed to go below freezing, keep your faucets dripping, and open cabinet doors so heat can reach pipes in areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
SERVPRO is Ready for a Polar Vortex 24/7
Storm damage repair and disaster cleanup services are a major part of SERVPRO’s portfolio. In the past, SERVPRO® assisted with cleanup efforts following the Arctic Outbreak of 2014, the 2021 Cold Outbreak, including the Texas Freeze Event of 2021, and the Polar Vortex of January 2024. Franchises also participated in cleanup and mitigation efforts after other natural disasters such as Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Ida and California wildfires.
With strategically placed storm teams across the United States, franchises are ready for both small and large-scale cleanup and mitigation events, with the goal of returning both residential and commercial properties to their pre-loss condition. What’s more, if you need construction services after a severe polar vortex or other large loss event, SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Teams® can provide commercial construction services.
To find out more about SERVPRO’s storm damage remediation services, visit our FAQ and Glossary or contact your local SERVPRO professionals.