After a summer marked by extreme heat, meteorological attention is beginning to turn to the next winter and the factors that could determine its behavior. The German meteorologist Johannes Habermehl from Meteoredanalyzes a scenario in which some changes in atmospheric circulation could favor spells of cold and snow in different areas of Europe, although there is still high uncertainty.
El Niño, one of the keys to winter
One of the elements that the expert considers relevant is the evolution of El Niño, which could reach exceptional intensity. This phenomenon alters atmospheric circulation on a global scale and, according to Habermehl, its behavior could indirectly influence the configuration of winter in the northern hemisphere.
The polar vortex, under the magnifying glass
Another key factor is the polar vortexwhich acts as a barrier that keeps the cold Arctic air confined. Under normal conditions, during the boreal winter, this vortex remains compact and confines the frigid air in high latitudes, favoring a milder climate in mid-latitudes such as Europe. Habermehl suggests that a possible weakening or alteration of this structure could favor the movement of cold air masses towards lower latitudes, increasing the chances of suffering severe storms in Europe.
Cold and snow, but with uncertainty
If these signs are consolidated, the season could translate into episodes of intense cold and snowfall in some regions of the European continent. However, the specialist also points out that there are other possible scenarios and that the final evolution will depend on the interaction between different atmospheric patterns during the coming months.
For now, Meteored presents these projections as mere possibilities and not a definitive prediction. Such long-term forecasts may still experience significant changes; we will have to wait for the coming months to see if these signals are consolidated and what the behavior of the winter ends up being.