Strong winds circulate counterclockwise around this low pressure area, and build up and trap some of the coldest air in the Northern Hemisphere across the Arctic. When these strong winds slacken, parts of the polar vortex can detach and meander southward, bringing ultra-cold air to southern Canada, the U.S. and Europe.

A polar vortex is bringing arctic air into the country next week. Forecast maps show when freezing temperatures will sweep through Texas.