dw.com
Arctic Amplification Drives Extreme Cold Waves in Turkey and North America
Turkey and parts of North America are experiencing extreme cold snaps with temperatures expected to reach -40°C in some US states and -20°C in Erzurum, Turkey, on Friday; experts link these events to Arctic amplification, a phenomenon where the Arctic warms four times faster than the global average, weakening the polar vortex and causing cold air to move south.
- What is the connection between 'Arctic amplification' and the recent severe cold waves in Eurasia and North America?
- Experts link these extreme winter conditions in Eurasia and North America to 'Arctic amplification', a phenomenon where the Arctic region warms at a rate four times faster than the global average. This accelerated warming reduces the temperature difference between the cold Arctic air and warmer southern air masses, weakening the polar vortex and allowing frigid air to surge southward.
- How can extreme cold waves, like those currently affecting Turkey and North America, occur during a period of documented global warming?
- Turkey's northern provinces, including Istanbul, are experiencing snowfall, with temperatures in Erzurum expected to plummet to -20 degrees Celsius on Friday night. Simultaneously, North America is facing a severe cold wave, with temperatures in some US states predicted to reach -40 degrees Celsius. This raises the question of how such frigid conditions can occur during a period of global warming.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the weakening polar vortex on weather patterns and societal preparedness in the face of climate change?
- The weakening polar vortex, a consequence of Arctic amplification, increases the frequency and intensity of cold snaps in southern regions. This effect, coupled with the capacity of warmer, more humid air to produce above-average snowfall upon sudden cooling, underscores the complex relationship between climate change and extreme weather events, with potentially severe future impacts on infrastructure, agriculture, and human health.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view by acknowledging both the record-breaking high temperatures of 2024 and the occurrence of extreme cold weather events. It incorporates various expert opinions and research findings without overtly favoring a single perspective. The headline is neutral, simply reporting on the cold weather and the scientific explanations offered.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and objective. However, phrases like "hayati tehlike oluşturabilecek" (potentially life-threatening) could be considered slightly sensationalistic, although it accurately reflects the warnings issued. The use of direct quotes from scientists maintains objectivity. The article carefully uses qualifiers like "might" and "may" when discussing the uncertain aspects of climate change's influence.
Bias by Omission
The article mentions the unusually cold weather in North America and Turkey, but it lacks specific data on the extent of the cold weather in Turkey compared to historical averages. Additionally, while mentioning the role of Arctic amplification, the analysis does not delve into other contributing factors to the cold snap, such as specific atmospheric patterns or short-term weather variations. The article focuses heavily on the opinions of experts, but it does not provide a counter-perspective from researchers who might disagree with the proposed connection between climate change and these specific cold events.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses extreme cold weather events in North America and Eurasia, linking them to the weakening of the polar vortex due to Arctic amplification, a consequence of climate change. While these events are localized, they highlight the complex and sometimes unexpected impacts of climate change, including increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather, which contradicts efforts to mitigate climate change and achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement.