One Last Blast? Polar Vortex Split May Cool Northern States
One Last Blast? Polar Vortex Split May Cool Northern States
US · Published Mar 18, 2026
A possible split in the polar vortex could bring a late-season cold snap to the Northern Tier, Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and New England.
Forecast models suggest that colder air may shift into southern Canada and the northern U.S., leading to below-average temperatures in some areas.
Forecasters indicate this is likely a final winter surge before warmer spring patterns fully take hold.
Polar vortex split may bring late cold
A potential split in the polar vortex might bring a final surge of cold air to the Northern Tier states, including the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and New England, as we approach the end of March. Weather forecast models indicate a possible division of the polar vortex, which could allow colder air to shift into southern Canada and the northern United States. This shift may result in below-average temperatures for some regions.
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