How to Prepare for the Polar Vortex

For many of us, the term “polar vortex” first came onto our radar in 2019. It caused extremely cold temperatures, mainly in Midwestern states, which resulted in dozens of deaths. In this post, we will explain why you should expect to hear “polar vortex” more in the future, despite a warming globe, and how to prepare for it.

What is a Polar Vortex?

Before we explain how to prepare for the polar vortex, let’s first discuss what it is. Here are a few polar vortex facts from National Weather Service:

The polar vortex is a large area of cold air located above the Earth’s poles. The jet stream, which is a band of quickly moving air at the edge of the polar vortex, keeps the polar vortex from coming far south often. The temperature difference between the poles and the middle areas of the globe are what keeps the jet stream moving quickly.

When temperatures between the poles and the middle regions approach one another, the jet stream slows down and begins to make a wavy pattern. This is different from its regular smooth, circular line. This wavy pattern creates high peaks and deep valleys, which is what allows the frigid Arctic air to sometimes come south well into the US.

Polar Vortex Forecast

National Geographic explains that with the Earth’s poles warming more quickly than its middle regions, we should expect to see temperatures on either side of the jet stream approach one another more often. In turn, we should expect to see the polar vortex dipping south more often. So while a warming earth means milder winters, and less extreme temperatures in the polar vortices, those temperatures are still plenty cold enough to cause serious harm to property and living beings.

Once the jet stream is weakened and cold air is able to move further south, it can take weeks for that air to reach parts of the US, so there will be time to prepare for the next one.

How to Prepare Your Home & Family for the Polar Vortex

It’s important to prepare for the next polar vortex ahead of time. Make a plan now and keep prepared during cold months. We all know how grocery stores are a pain when news of an impending storm breaks. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re prepared for the polar vortex:

1. Stay Warm – Physical safety is most important. Make sure you have plenty of clothing and blankets in case extreme temperatures caused by the polar vortex affect the power grid and your home.

There are ways to insulate your home to prepare for power outages. Indow inserts add a second layer in your window frames to help keep warm air inside and stop cold outside air from penetrating during winter.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene – If there is a power outage, you might be left without running water. Make sure you are well stocked on water for drinking, washing, and flushing. Clean hands are important for preventing illness. Have several gallons of water for each person in your home. In serious storms that can take power out for an extended period of time, consider filling your bathtub with water and using that when needed. Any water stored in the bathtub during a storm should always be boiled before consuming.

3. Stock Up on Food – Make sure you have plenty of healthy, nonperishable food. In case there is a power outage, have plenty of food that does not need to be cooked before eating. Even without a power outage, restaurants and stores might be closed. Non-military MREs (meals ready to eat) are sustaining and can be found at large stores like Walmart, Costco, and Sam’s Club.

4. Keep the Outside of Your Home Clear – As much as possible, keep your sidewalks, driveway, and car clear of snow and ice. In case of emergency, you will want to have quick, easy access to your car. Be sure to run it every once in a while. Road salt is good for your driveways, and you can find it at most stores.

In extreme temperatures, which are seen during a polar vortex, please avoid staying outside for longer than a couple minutes. Even a few minutes in extremely cold temperatures can be dangerous to your health.

5. Watch Out for Gas & Portable Heaters Indoors – These can be lifesaving items during a major winter storm, but it is important that they never be left running unattended, or for too long. Turn your heaters off and unplug them if you leave the room or are going to bed. Designate two people in your home to always check that gas stoves and portable heaters are turned off when not in use.

Be a Good Citizen & Neighbor

We caution you to prepare your home for extreme weather events because exposure to the elements can cause serious health problems and even death. Once your home and family are prepared for the polar vortex, prepare to help others in your community.

Donating extra clothing items and blankets to shelters is a great way to help those in need stay warm. If you live in Portland, Oregon, refer to this list of donation sites. Searching “donate clothes and blankets + your city” in Google will allow you to find similar resources.

If you see someone outside in extreme weather events, dialing 211 to get connected with people that can help might save a life.