MONROE — On Feb. 2, Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter and Wisconsin’s weather complied. 

Local weekend temperatures dipped below zero thanks to a polar vortex that has taken ahold of the region.

The vortex, which is an area of arctic cold that typically stays near the North Pole, is occasionally “dislodged” because of Sudden Stratospheric Warming, or a sudden warming of the upper atmosphere.

Though the severe cold brought in by a polar vortex can be dangerous or even fatal, they are relatively easy to predict because the SSW will typically happen two to three weeks in advance, New Glarus weather hobbyist Scott Rippe said. Rippe is the face behind the Rippeology Facebook page, offering “amateur weather insights and forecasts for southern Wisconsin”. He has studied weather and climate since childhood.

“We noticed this process beginning about four weeks ago and knew it was only a matter of time before that cold air spilled into the United States,” Rippe said. 

Wisconsin last fell victim to a polar vortex in January 2019, but Rippe said that this vortex might look different than the last one seen by the region.

“It has longer staying power,” Rippe said. “The door is open for the cold air, and unlike 2019, it’s not closing anytime soon.”

He said that a southern dip in the jet stream opens the door for additional cold fronts to make way from the northwest. 

The average high temperature this time of the year is 29 degrees Fahrenheit and the average low is 13 degrees, putting the current temperatures at 25-30 degrees below normal.

With such low temperatures, a focus on winter safety becomes more important for both animals and people. 

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers residents safety tips for dealing with extreme cold — from preventative actions to what to do in the case of suspected hypothermia.

The DHS recommends that clothing be both layered and wind resistant — and when it gets wet, it is time to go inside.

It is also suggested that drivers keep an emergency supply kit prepared. Suggested supplies include jumper cables, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. 

The DHS also notes that is important to keep extra masks on hand and to switch out your mask if it becomes wet or damp from snow.

A complete list of winter weather health and safety tips can be found at https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/climate/winter-weather.htm. 

As of Feb. 8, Green County is not currently offering any specific warming centers, but those in need of assistance out of the cold are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency.