Graphic shows temperatures in the U.S. as of Feb 17, and the science behind the polar vortex.
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WEATHER

Polar vortex engulfing the U.S.

By Jordi Bou

February 17, 2021 - A huge winter storm sweeping across the southern U.S. has killed at least 30 people and left millions without power. The extreme weather is forecast to continue until the weekend.

Blame the polar vortex, a weather pattern that usually keeps to the Arctic, but is increasingly visiting lower latitudes and staying beyond its welcome. Scientists say global warming caused by humans is partly responsible for making the polar vortex's southward escapes longer and more frequent.

More than 100 million people live in areas covered Wednesday by some type of winter weather warning, watch or advisory, as yet another winter storm hits Texas and other parts of the southern Plains, the National Weather Service said.

Around four million customers remained without power in Texas, 1.4m in Houston alone.’
The weather has threatened the nation's Covid-19 vaccination effort. President Joe Biden’s administration said delays in vaccine shipments and deliveries were likely.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 17/02/2021; STORY: Graphic News
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