WINTER WEATHER - WIND CHILL AND MORE...

What other winter hazards may be encountered?

There are a wide variety of hazards that accompany winter weather. One of these is “wind chill”. “Wind chill” is really an index of air temperature that tells us how quickly heat is lost from skin when exposed to cold, windy conditions. A wind chill chart may be found on the website www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi/winter/winter.html. This chart shows us that frostbite can occur rapidly in high winds and low temperatures - take care when outside during cold windy days!

Sleet and freezing rain - roadway hazards.

Sleet is precipitation that freezes as it is falling through the air. These ice pellets can accumulate on roadways and sidewalks creating hazardous walking and driving conditions. Freezing rain is rain that freezes when it comes in contact with the ground or other cold surface. In addition to creating difficult driving conditions, freezing rain can lead to downed trees and power lines. Read more about winter precipitation at www.weather.com/encyclopedia/winter/precip.html.

What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a condition where the body’s core temperature falls dangerously low. This condition can result in death. Severe hypothermia results when the body’s temperature falls below 96 degrees. Avoid this condition by keeping warm and dry during winter outdoor activities. Remember that even perspiration resulting from shoveling snow can cause a chill!

Where can I learn more about winter weather hazards?

For more information on winter weather preparedness, check out “Winter Storms...The Deceptive Killers” and other publications at http://weather.gov/om/winter/index.shtml.