Cold weather
Photo: Alan D. Wilson, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Cold weather is common all year in the Arctic and Antarctica, as well as at high elevations, and during winter in temperate areas. Cold weather is part of everyday life for the residents of these areas, as well as travellers who pursue winter sport or mountaineering, or who go for whale watching or to view the Northern Lights.
UnderstandCold threatens health by two distinct mechanisms: frostbite and hypothermia.
ClothingThere is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Near and below freezing point, you should cover your entire body. Don't neglect gloves, headwear or scarves.
Food, drinks and restKeeping warm requires energy and is much harder when hungry – or tired. Have enough food and enough snack and food breaks.
Wind and moistureCold weather is much less dangerous when not combined with wetness or wind. Moist air will feel much colder than dry air at the same temperature, and wind will increase the cooling effect and thereby the frostbite risk.
TransportCars should be equipped with a cabin air heating system for a comfortable ride and for safety.
Electronic devicesFew devices are designed for freezing temperatures and even fewer for extreme temperatures.
Overnight stayWhile sleeping in a tent or shelter is possible even in extreme temperatures – with adequate skills and equipment – staying outdoors overnight in freezing weather should be done only with great caution and careful…
EmergenciesIf you are away from inhabited areas you must be able to cope with emergencies yourself, at least for some time.
Frostbite and hypothermiaThere are two dangers in cold weather: frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite means damage caused to skin and other tissues due to freezing.
Most importantly...Have fun! Skiing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing in an Arctic night, with northern lights shining, is an unforgettable experience.
Amazing thingsIn countries where there are cold winters, winter swimming is popular among some, to harden the body or relax and enjoy the feeling afterwards.
FestivalsMany places have winter festivals that make full use of the cold weather for activities that would not be possible otherwise.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Cold weather" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Alan D. Wilson, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons