Key Takeaways
- The Polar Vortex is expected to arrive at the end of the week, bringing temperatures 5-10 degrees colder than usual for the start of December.
- A storm system will move into the region on Wednesday, followed by dangerous cold on Thursday, with temperatures plunging toward -15°C.
- Widespread snow is expected on Wednesday and Friday, with 10-15 cm of accumulation expected each time.
- Temperatures will be frigid, with daytime highs struggling to reach -10°C on Thursday.
- Snow squalls will return on Saturday, with a shift in winds to the northwest.
Introduction to the Polar Vortex
The Polar Vortex is a powerful weather phenomenon that is expected to arrive at the end of the week, bringing with it temperatures that are 5-10 degrees colder than usual for the start of December. This cold air mass will have a significant impact on the region, with temperatures plummeting to dangerously low levels. The arrival of the Polar Vortex will be preceded by a quiet start to the workweek, with a mix of sun and clouds on Monday and clearing skies on Tuesday.
Weather Forecast for Monday and Tuesday
On Monday, a mix of sun and clouds will become mostly cloudy, with temperatures reaching -3°C. Southwest winds will strengthen in the afternoon, setting the stage for enhanced lake-effect flurries to develop on St. Joseph Island and well north of the city in the evening. Everywhere else is expected to remain quiet, with no significant precipitation expected. On Tuesday, clearing skies will give way to increasing clouds in the evening, with temperatures climbing slightly to -2°C before falling to -6°C overnight. This will be a relatively calm period, with no major weather systems expected to impact the region.
Storm System and Cold Air on Wednesday and Thursday
However, this calm will be short-lived, as a new weather system will move into the region on Wednesday, bringing widespread snow to the area. The snow will develop during the day and continue into Thursday, with 10-15 cm of accumulation expected. Temperatures will peak near -1°C early on Wednesday, before arctic air surges in, sending overnight lows plummeting to -14°C. This will mark the coldest air of the season, and will have a significant impact on the region. On Thursday, the daytime highs will struggle to reach -10°C, under a mix of sun and cloud, making it a very cold day.
Continued Snow and Cold on Friday and Saturday
The cold air will persist into Friday, with another round of widespread snow expected. The snow will continue into Saturday, with 10-15 cm of accumulation expected, as snow squalls return on a shift in winds to the northwest. Temperatures will climb slightly to -3°C on Friday, but will still remain well below average. The continued snow and cold will make for a very wintry weekend, with significant impacts on travel and outdoor activities.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the arrival of the Polar Vortex at the end of the week will bring significant cold and snow to the region. The storm system on Wednesday and the continued snow on Friday and Saturday will make for a very wintry period, with temperatures plummeting to dangerously low levels. It is essential to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm during this period. With the cold air and snow expected to persist into the weekend, it is crucial to plan ahead and make any necessary arrangements to minimize the impacts of the weather.
