What to Expect When the Polar Vortex Hits New England

Get ready, New England. 2025 is coming in cold.

The threat of a polar vortex could bring icy temperatures to New England for the first half of January.

Here is what Massachusetts and the rest of New England can expect.

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What Is a Polar Vortex?

According to the National Weather Service, the polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles, weakening in the summer and strengthening in the winter. During winter in the northern hemisphere, the polar vortex expands, sending cold air southward with the jet stream.

Truthfully, it’s nothing to panic about.

“This occurs fairly regularly during wintertime and is often associated with large outbreaks of Arctic air in the United States,” said the weather service.

When you hear about the polar vortex, your only concern should be the amount of layers you can put on and your access to heat.

READ MORE: SouthCoast's Polar Plunge Locations for New Year's Day

Weather for Southern New England on New Year’s Eve and January

According to ABC 6, it will be a rainy start to 2025.

“Our next storm drives rain back into southern New England around 11 pm or so,” said Kristina Shalhoup. “We’ll start with widespread light rain, then the rain intensifies not long after midnight. Don’t be surprised if, in the first hours of January 1, you hear a rumble of thunder or two as well.”

By Thursday, the polar vortex will make itself known with very cold temperatures and gusty winds.

High temperatures will hover around freezing by Friday and Saturday is expected to only reach the upper 20s.

No need to panic at the sign of the polar vortex, but make sure your heat is on and you have your layers ready.