Winter Weather Outlook: How Global Patterns Will Impact the US
The weather in November has been quite eventful, with record colds in the East, lake-effect snow around the Great Lakes, and unsettled weather across the West. As we approach the end of the month, it’s essential to examine how global weather patterns, such as La Niña and the polar vortex, will influence the winter season.
According to the FOX Forecast Center, the second half of November is expected to bring cold and snowy conditions to the US, particularly if the Polar Vortex weakens. This could lead to a fast start to a brutal winter for parts of the country. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Arctic Oscillation (AO) are trending more negative, resulting in a more amplified jet stream across the Lower 48, which can lead to stormier weather and cooler-than-average air.
La Niña and Its Impact on US Weather
La Niña conditions are developing in the eastern Pacific and are expected to become more significant in December. This climate pattern is characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, which can directly impact US weather patterns. Typical La Niña winters feature a more active Pacific jet stream that funnels moisture into the West and northern tier of the country. 
This graphic displays the weather outlook for the rest of November. (FOX Weather)
The Climate Prediction Center’s (CPC) precipitation and temperature outlooks through Thanksgiving week reflect this trend, with wetter-than-average conditions expected across the Central and Eastern US, and above-average temperatures in the East. However, the West is expected to face below-average temperatures through the end of the month. 
This graphic displays the precipitation outlook for the Lower 48 for later November into December. (FOX Weather)
Polar Vortex and Winter Weather
The Polar Vortex is expected to weaken into December, allowing for increased chances of blasts of cold, arctic air to engulf the Lower 48. This could bring winter-like weather to the region, with the potential for snow and freezing temperatures. The FOX Forecast Center is closely monitoring the end-of-month setup and larger-scale atmospheric signals that could be hinting at a more active weather pattern to round out the month and kick off the holiday season. 
This graphic displays the temperature outlook for the Lower 48 for later November into December. (FOX Weather)
As we enter meteorological winter, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest weather patterns and forecasts. For more information, visit Here to stay up-to-date on the latest weather news and forecasts.
Image Source: www.foxweather.com
