Stratospheric winds can warn of extreme energy demand in Europe

A study shows that when the usual winter polar winds weaken, Europe faces a higher risk of very cold temperatures. The strong westerly winds that normally form a stable ring high above the Arctic, called the stratospheric polar vortex, help keep temperatures moderate. A breakdown of this vortex can lead to colder weather and a sharp rise in energy use.

A breakdown of normal polar winds in winter raises the chance of extreme cold—and a resulting spike in energy demand—in Europe, new research shows. Normally, strong and stable westerly winds circle high above the Arctic in the winter, in what is known as the "stratospheric polar vortex.

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