Three polar vortexes will bring Arctic cold to central and eastern U.S. until mid-December.

Forecasters warn that a trio of Arctic air blasts, triggered by a shifting polar vortex, is set to bring frigid conditions to much of the central and eastern United States over the next few weeks. The first wave of extreme cold is already unfolding this week.

"This week will close with some of the coldest air of the season, as a cold front pushes from the Midwest into the Northeast and mid-Atlantic," said Renee Duff, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather. Experts predict two additional rounds of intense cold will affect millions in the coming fortnight.

"As the polar vortex shifts, Arctic air is spilling into the central and eastern U.S.," Duff added. "We anticipate a second cold surge next week, followed by a third around mid-December."

Timing of the Arctic Air

The Midwest experienced a sharp drop in temperatures on Thursday morning, while northern mid-Atlantic states and New England will face the cold on Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service. "This initial outbreak is likely the first of three successive cold waves," noted Paul Pastelok, lead long-range meteorologist at AccuWeather. "Another surge is expected next week, with a third following soon after."

Expected Temperatures

The Midwest could see lows in the negative single digits and teens, while the northern mid-Atlantic and New England may experience single-digit to teen temperatures, potentially breaking daily low-temperature records, the NWS reports. Along the I-95 corridor, temperatures are forecast to drop into the 10s and 20s, while subzero readings are expected from the Dakotas and Minnesota down to Iowa and Nebraska.

Forecasted high temperatures for the next few days include:

• Midwest: teens to 20s F
• New England: 20s to 30s F
• Central and southern Plains to Mid-Atlantic: 30s to 40s F
• Texas and Southeast: 40s to 50s F

Understanding the Polar Vortex

The polar vortex is a massive low-pressure area surrounding the Earth's poles, containing extremely cold air. The term "vortex" refers to the counterclockwise circulation that keeps cold air near the poles. During winter, the vortex can expand, pushing Arctic air southward along the jet stream, the NWS explains.

Winter Safety Precautions

AccuWeather recommends winterizing homes and water lines, checking furnaces, and ordering heating oil or propane promptly. The American Red Cross advises these measures if power is lost:

• Use generators, grills, and stoves outdoors, away from windows, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Never use an oven or stove for heating.
• Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights instead of candles.
• Close off unnecessary rooms and maintain safe distances from heat sources.

Outdoor Safety Tips

If venturing outside, cover exposed skin to avoid frostbite. Wear layers of warm, loose-fitting clothing, a hat, mittens, a scarf or ski mask, and water-resistant boots. Avoid overexertion, especially when navigating deep snow, as it may lead to heart strain or other medical issues.

Author: Connor Blake