Fed up with frigid temperatures? Blame the polar vortex

In case it isn't painfully obvious, it's going to be a cold, cold winter.

Between high windsand extreme temperatures dipping well into the20s, Ottawaresidents might want to think twice before heading out for New Year's.

• Extreme cold snap expected to linger: Environment Canada
• Iced cap: Ottawa currently coldest capital city in the world

But what exactly is causing the extreme temperatures?

According to Environment Canada, you can thank thepolar vortex.That's when alarge pocket of dense arctic air blastsfreezing air over a region. It can last for several days at a timeand createdangerous conditions.

But what does that mean for the average Ottawa resident?Well, remember the infamous winter of 2014? Meteorologists called it Canada's longest winter.Consider this a rerun.

• Frigid weather: How to survive an extremely cold day
• The Polar Vortex hits Ottawa again

Polar vortexes exist around both of the Earth's poles, but weakenin the summer and pickup strength in the winter, according to Environment Canada.

While the term has recently became popularized,weather forecasters say the polar vortex hasalways existed.

To protect yourself from the extreme cold, EnvironmentCanada suggests dressing in layersand ensuring your outer layer is wind proof. If you experience shortness of breathor a numbing sensation, you are advised to seek shelter as soon as possible.

This week, Ontario saw weather and frostbite warnings for regions across the province, and that's expected to continue into the new year.