Record-Early Polar Vortex Reversal Forecasted for November 2026
Record-Early Polar Vortex Reversal Forecasted for November 2026
US · Published Oct 29, 2026
• Forecast models predict a record-early reversal of the Northern Hemisphere stratospheric polar vortex in early November 2026, potentially marking the earliest major sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event since
• The polar vortex, a belt of westerly winds encircling the Arctic, is expected to weaken significantly, with winds at 10 hPa and 60°N potentially reversing direction between November 4–

Impact & Risks

A major sudden stratospheric warming event could lead to changes in atmospheric circulation, potentially causing cold outbreaks in midlatitude regions such as Europe, North America, and Asia. However, the surface impacts of such events are highly variable and depend on factors like the Arctic Oscillation and North Atlantic Oscillation patterns. While colder weather is possible, it is not guaranteed, and the timing and geographic extent of any impacts remain uncertain.

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