#physics #weather **Polar vortex in the news again** If we put this in terms of a SciMeth hypothesis then: The Polar Vortex, as defined only in the stratosphere, can drive weather on the surface. Again, this is ridiculous and breaks all the laws of physics. However, it makes good press. The stratosphere is effectively vacuum, and the air particles have very high velocity, but almost no energy. Like the sparks coming off a fireworks sparkler. 1000 degrees, but it won't burn you.