Polar Vortex Collapse Expected to Bring Severe Cold to UK, US in March

The Met Office has indicated an 80% chance of a polar vortex collapse occurring in March, which could result in severe weather conditions similar to the 2018 'Beast from the East' event that caused significant disruptions in the UK. This sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) phenomenon is characterized by a reversal of winds in the stratosphere, leading to a rapid descent of cold air. As the UK has recently experienced warm temperatures reaching nearly 20C, a shift to much colder weather with potential wintry showers is expected as a frontal zone moves south. Forecasts suggest that temperatures could drop below average, with overnight lows plunging to -4C in some rural areas. The impacts of the SSW will likely be felt towards the end of March, and the Met Office will provide more clarity on specific weather patterns as the situation develops. Overall, this could mark a significant change in weather conditions for the UK after a brief warm spell.