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ArchiveLesson #230Science

Early Polar Vortex Weakening Could Bring Snow

The polar vortex is weakening earlier than usual, which may affect UK winter weather and snow chances.

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Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

The polar is a large area of cold air that forms every autumn as temperatures drop in the Arctic. This year, it is earlier than usual, which could change the winter weather for the UK. Experts say this is an event, and they are unsure why it is happening now. If the polar continues to , it may bring colder air and possibly snow to the UK. However, it is still too early to predict the weather accurately. Some regions may remain dry, which raises about water supplies. The situation is still evolving, and meteorologists are monitoring it closely.

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Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from BBC and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Grammar in this story

“Experts say this is an unusual event, and they are unsure why it is happening now.”

Reporting verb + that-clause. Read the guide

Key vocabulary

  • vortex noun

    A vortex is a spinning mass of fluid or air.

    “The tornado created a powerful vortex that lifted debris into the sky.”

  • weaken verb

    To weaken means to make something less strong.

    “The storm will weaken as it moves over land.”

  • unusual adjective

    Unusual means not common or rare.

    “It is unusual to see snow in April.”

  • concern noun

    Concern is a feeling of worry about something.

    “There is a concern about the rising temperatures this summer.”

  • forecast noun

    A forecast is a prediction about future weather.

    “The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow.”

Quick quiz

01What is the main topic of the article?

02What does the word 'weaken' mean in the text?

03When does the polar vortex usually form?

04What is a concern mentioned in the article?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

What do you think about the early weakening of the polar vortex? In your answer, use the words 'weaken' and 'concern'.