The polar vortex, a swirling mass of cold air located over the polar regions, is responsible for the cold. COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Arctic blast arrived in central Ohio on Monday, bringing with it the coldest air that central Ohio has felt in more than two years.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Temperatures today and Saturday will reach the mid-30s in Northeast Ohio. Residents should make a point of enjoying it, because it will seem downright balmy compared to what is coming. On Sunday, highs will be around 20 degrees, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service. Then it gets really cold.

As more Arctic air masses flow into the WOWK-TV region, you have undoubtedly heard the term “Polar Vortex” brought up in the conversation. But what is it? Definition:

Salt only works above 15 degrees Fahrenheit. For colder temperatures, add a small amount of sand for traction or switch to an ice-melting product.

Winter isn’t over yet! A polar vortex is bringing subzero winds, frigid temperatures, and possibly snow to the U.S., including snowbird states like Florida. National weather agencies and meteorologists are warning folks of a "shivering weather pattern" that’s forecasted to go into effect tomorrow and linger through next week.

A blast of Arctic air is set to cover much of the United States with temperatures below freezing starting on Friday and into next week, impacting millions of Americans in nearly all of the contiguous states.

Some areas of the U.S. may see temperatures as low as -20 or -30 degrees early next week as arctic air from Siberia rolls in.

These outbreaks can happen when the polar vortex is in a weaker state, allowing cold air that is normally confined to the north to break off and move further south. Some experts say this is happening more frequently because of a warming world.

A new blast of Arctic air sweeping from north to south will bring bone-chilling temperatures to millions of Americans this weekend and next week.

In central Ohio, temperatures will plunge from the low 20s to the low teens by midnight behind an arctic cold front, accompanied by snow showers and a few snow squalls that will leave a coating of snow and slick spots. Readings will fall to near zero by daybreak.

Temperatures this week will be in the teens with overnight lows near zero, and that may seem warm compared to next week, as it is becoming increasingly likely that we

A polar vortex is slated to sweep most of the continental US bringing winter storm warnings and a hazardous freeze to millions.