February 2022 Outlook
February Analogs: 1955, 1956, 1971, 1996, 2006 (x2), 2001 (x3), 2018, 2012, 1965, 1975, 1972, 2008, 2011,1985
The month should average anywhere from near normal to 2 degrees above average. Warmest near the east coast and the mid atlantic, coldest north and well inland. But again, the risk is for a much warmer outcome.
The forecast for a significant polar vortex disruption between approximately January 21 and February 14 currently appears unlikely to materialize, as the vortex is now expected to remain rather stout into early February.
However, it is possible that, too may ultimately prove more delayed than denied, this it will need to be monitored. Otherwise, the implication of the timing discrepancy with respect to the Pacific means that the month is likely to begin rather wintery, featuring a gradient like distribution of snowfall via overrunning and SWFE, due in large part to PNA/-EPO couple combined with a dearth of Arctic blocking. This pattern is now expected to break down and give way to an active pacific jet around mid month, which will mean a much milder period characterized by zonal flow. This progression is supported by the anticipated emergence of the MJO into phase 3 during the early portion of the month, as indicated by the consensus of guidance:
Note the southeast ridge emerging in the mean:
Subsequent propagation to phase 4 entails lowering heights it the vicinity of Alaska, which induces a mild, zonal flow:
This is followed by potential movement into phase 5 and a continuation of the mild pattern in the latter portion of the month.
This is at least somewhat consistent with current long term guidance:
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