What is a Sudden Stratospheric Warming event?

Russ Thomas' Sudden Stratospheric Warming PKG November 13, 2025

30K views · 113 reactions | A sudden stratospheric warming event looks likely for the pole as we round out the month of November. This will mean warmth in the short term then what goes up ⬆️ must come down… Colder for the start of December seems very possible. These typically take a few weeks to take hold. Something to watch as we enjoy nice fall weather across much of the lower 48. | Meteorologist Ross Whitley | Facebook

Stratospheric warming is weakening the southern hemisphere's polar vortex

Polar vortex disturbed: A rare sudden stratospheric warming begins

🌍 Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) 🌡️ Big things are happening high above us. A Sudden Stratospheric Warming is when temperatures in the stratosphere over the Arctic jump dramatically in just a few days—sometimes by 40–50°C. This rapid warming can disrupt or even split the polar vortex, weakening the usual west-to-east winds. ❄️ Why does it matter? When the polar vortex is disturbed, the effects can cascade down into the lower atmosphere, increasing the chances of: • Cold air outbreaks • Blo