Stratospheric polar vortex (Q1060)
Subject, term, tag: Stratospheric polar vortex
| Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | Stratospheric polar vortex |
Subject, term, tag: Stratospheric polar vortex |
Statements
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026
A large-scale region of cold air poleward of approximately 60 degrees that is contained by a strong westerly jet from the tropopause (8–10 km) to the stratopause (50–60 km) and that forms in each hemisphere during the winter half-year. Planetary waves can temporarily disrupt the vortex, producing easterly winds and rapid warming over polar regions in the stratosphere, and leading to substantial weakening or breakdown of the vortex. (English)
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026