What Is Polar Vortex And Why It's In News?
Image: Unsplash
11 April 2024
In an unexpected turn of events, scientists noticed last week that to polar vortex has changed its course
Image: Unsplash
The large area of low pressure and cold air suddenly started spinning in the opposite direction
Video: NASA
The shift happened on March 4 and is the sixth strongest occurrences of its kind since 1979
Image: Unsplash
So why is this happening? Experts say more ozone from lower altitude moved in, causing the vortex to change direction
Image: Pixabay
Scientists are trying to predict what effect this might have on weather systems in the coming months
Image: Unsplash
However, these reversals aren't all that unusual and this is not the first reversal this year
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Still, climate experts are keeping a close eye for any changes in weather patterns due to the reversal
Image: Unsplash
The polar vortex sits in the stratosphere, which starts at around 6–20 kms above the Earth's surface
Image: Pexels
The term "vortex" refers to the counter-clockwise flow of air that helps keep the colder air near the Poles
Image: Unsplash
It always exists near the poles, but weakens in summer and strengthens in winter
Image: Unsplash
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