With record-breaking low temperatures set to hit the Midwest this week, as the polar vortex blasts arctic conditions.
The national weather service released this information on Monday but, what does this mean for us?
What Is A Polar Vortex?
Essentially, a polar vortex is a wide expanse of cold air and low-pressure area that starts in the Polar Regions.
During winter this expands sending blasts of bitterly cold weather to be pushed further south into the United States.
These sub-zero temperatures will be putting not only people but animals at risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Property owners will face substantial problems from frozen pipes, to broken furnaces and the storm will also impact commercial properties which could be damaged by broken fire supression lines leading to interior water damage and property disasters of epic proportions this week.
What Does This Mean?
Well, you can expect dangerously cold weather this week in the Midwest, with some areas being the coldest in two decades.
The temperature will drop anywhere between 40-60 degrees in some pasts, so be set for some extreme weather conditions.
In previous years the polar vortex has caused blisteringly cold temperatures that swept across the US. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear how much disruption these freezing temperatures will bring this year.
How To Stay Safe
During this week it’s important you stay safe and prepare for the cold weather to pass, but how can you do this?
Protecting your homes against the cold weather will ensure your house stays warm and your pipes don’t freeze. Insulate all water pipes to prevent them from freezing, and make sure your heating stays on.
image via weather.com
Most importantly you should stay inside whenever possible, the chances of hypothermia and frostbite are high. If you have to venture outside for any reason it’s important that you dress for the weather. This means plenty of layers, ensuring all skin is covered to prevent frostbite setting in whilst out in the elements.
If you have to go out in your vehicle make sure you have an emergency kit, flashlights, blankets, shovel, clothes and more. It’s important to make sure you leave with a full tank to keep you warm if you become stranded due to bad weather. Finally, protect your pets and livestock, make sure they have somewhere warm to sleep and plenty of food and water.
It Will Pass
Remember the weather will pass its only set for a week, but things could change make sure you’re prepared for the worst.
It’s important that during this time of bitterly cold weather that you stay safe, and follow any and all precautions possible.
