Tag Archives: high winds

Life threatening winter weather – Wind chill, frostbite and hypothermia

Wind chill, frostbite and hypothermia are very real dangers in the winter.
Wind chill, frostbite and hypothermia are very real dangers in the winter.

Winter weather can not only be trying on the mind and soul, it also presents very real dangers to the human body.  Extreme wind chills can be deadly and bring on the outset of frostbite and hypothermia.  Here in Colorado, all residents should be aware of these hazards and be prepared to deal with them. 

In this fourth in a series on Winter Weather Preparedness from the National Weather Service, ThorntonWeather.com helps you understand wind chill and how to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia.  

Part 1 Winter travel safety
Part 2 Watches…warnings…and advisories
Part 3 High winds
Part 4 Wind chill temperatures and hypothermia
Part 5  Avalanche safety
Review  Winter Weather Preparedness Week review

PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DENVER CO
ISSUED BY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GOODLAND KS 600 AM MDT THU OCT 23 2008

Extreme wind chill – Potentially life-threatening and often overlooked

The combination of wind and cold temperatures in winter can be deadly.  Winter storms often bring heavy snow to Colorado which results in slick roadways, traffic accidents and stranded travelers.  While the attention of most people is focused on expected snow accumulation before a storm arrives, many ignore the life threatening combination of extreme cold and strong wind which often develops after the storm passes.  Wind chill is a measure of heat loss from the body due to wind and cold air.  Frostbite and hypothermia are two consequences of wind chill.  All three will be discussed today as part of Colorado Winter Weather Preparedness Week.

Continue reading Life threatening winter weather – Wind chill, frostbite and hypothermia

High winds a major threat in Colorado during the winter

Winds in the winter can be one of the most frustrating and dangerous weather conditions.   What causes them and how can you protect yourself?
Winds in the winter can be one of the most frustrating and dangerous weather conditions. What causes them and how can you protect yourself?

As we have experienced in the last 24 hours or so, high winds in Colorado can cause conditions to deteriorate rapidly.  They present a very real danger to life and property, especially when coupled with other winter conditions like snow.  Why does it seem like we get so much wind in the winter?  What causes this?  How can you prepare and protect yourself and your property? 

In this third in a series on Winter Weather Preparedness from the National Weather Service, ThorntonWeather.com helps you understand why we receive so much wind and how to prepare for it. 

Part 1 Winter travel safety
Part 2 Watches…warnings…and advisories
Part 3 High winds
Part 4 Wind chill temperatures and hypothermia
Part 5  Avalanche safety
Review  Winter Weather Preparedness Week review

PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE DENVER CO
ISSUED BY NWS PUEBLO CO
600 AM MDT WED OCT 22 2008

HIGH WINDS ARE A MAJOR THREAT IN COLORADO DURING THE WINTER

Governor Bill Ritter has proclaimed this week through October 25th as winter weather preparedness week in Colorado.  This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, and radio and television stations to review their winter weather preparedness plans.

Two main causes of high winds in Colorado during the cold season are the air pressure difference between strong low pressure and cold high pressure systems, and Chinook winds developing along the front range and mountains in the eastern half of the state.

Continue reading High winds a major threat in Colorado during the winter