Midwest Winters
If you are familiar with the Midwest, specifically Minnesota, you know that we are known for having winters that can be very snowy and cold. This makes staying warm quite challenging, especially if you have never experienced a Minnesota/Midwest Winter. It is important to prepare for the cold and severe weather that can accompany winters in the Midwest in order to prevent complications such as hypothermia and frostbite. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to help prepare you for what is to come this winter.
Winter Facts
The first day of winter is officially December 21, but that doesn’t mean that winter weather won’t strike before then. Freezing temperatures in Minnesota can start as early as mid to late November and last until late April. Temperatures during this time can get as low as -11 degrees Fahrenheit. In February of 1996, the coldest recorded temperature reached in Minnesota was an astonishing -60 degrees Fahrenheit… Now that is C-O-L-D! Here are some things you can do to prepare you and your loved ones for these chilling temps.
Dress Appropriately: What to wear?
In order to stay warm, we recommend dressing appropriately for inclement weather. This includes wearing warm coats, layers, winter boots, thick, long wool socks, scarves, hats, mittens/ gloves, and long johns (thermal undergarments).
What if I don’t have those things?
– Check out local thrift stores for gently used items at reduced prices. (Good Will, Salvation Army, etc.)
– Ask friends, co-workers and acquaintances if they are getting rid of any of their gear from previous seasons and would be willing to give it or sell it to you.
– Olmsted County United Way has a program that helps supply coats and accessories to those in need: https://www.uwolmsted.org/sites/uwolmsted.org/files/WinterCoatsAccessories_forCommunityMembers%202020%20Sept.pdf
-Get creative. If you don’t have a heavy coat, layer multiple layers to create a warm barrier. If you don’t have a scarf, wrap a small blanket around your face and neck. If you don’t have gloves, layer warm socks on your hands to keep you warm.
Car Safety: what should I keep in my car?
-An ice scraper/snow brush
-Always make sure you have your cold weather gear with you while you are driving (even if you aren’t wearing it)
-Jumper cables
-Extra warm gear, such as blankets and sleeping bags
-Cell phone chargers or back up battery packs
-Flashlights
-Extra water and food that has a longer shelf life, such as protein or granola bars
Planning to Travel?
- Look into your local National Weather Service for weather conditions before travelling. Avoid travelling if severe winter advisory is expected.
- If travel is essential, make sure you let your family or friends know when you left, the route you will use, and the time they would expect your arrival.
- If you get stranded in the car due to inclement weather:
- Stay inside the car, unless there is a building nearby for shelter no more than 100 yards away
- Notify the authorities
- Make your car visible to rescuers
- Move all your essentials close to you
- Keep your body warm: use extra clothes, blanket, jacket or newspaper. If you’re with someone, huddle together
- Turn on the engine/heater for 10 minutes per hour and open one window to let air in. Make sure exhaust pipe is not clog with snow
- If you get stranded in the car due to inclement weather:
Signs & Basic treatment for Frostbite and Hypothermia
- Frostbite: numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin
- Treatment: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water and use body heat to warm. Don’t massage.
- Hypothermia: unusual low body temperature; <95 degrees is an emergency
- Treatment: Go to a warm room. Warm the center to the body first, chest, neck, head & groin.
Resources:
