rogressive Farmer Meteorologist John Baranick penned a note this week, making a case for the return of winter for a large swath of the Lower 48 -- something we've pointed out in recent weeks -- recall, Siberia Records Minus-80 Degrees As Talk Of Polar Vortex Grows.

The year started with above-average temperatures for much of the Lower 48. Now Baranick forecasts a major shift in the weather for the Canadian Prairies, Northern and Central Plains, and Upper Midwest.

"These areas will have the longest duration of low temperatures from the upcoming event that is forecast to last about two weeks, or into mid-February," he said.