Weather Tips
Preparing for Winter Weather
Winter in Minot can be a lot of fun if you are prepared. Although you should be very careful to stay safe, there are many ways to enjoy time outside during the winter. Remember to check the weather report every day and anticipate dips in wind chill. Wind chill makes the temperature feel even colder because of high winds. By bundling up, you will be able to spend plenty of time outside in the sunshine to keep your spirits up. You can also check the MSU Campus Calendar to find fun winter activities. Below are some tips to help you get ready.
Dressing for Winter Weather
- Always wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
- Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
- Wear a hat that covers your ears. A hat will prevent loss of body heat.
- Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
- Choose wool over cotton when possible because wool is much warmer.
During a Snowstorm
- Stay indoors during the storm.
- Walk carefully on snowy, icy, walkways.
- Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
- Watch for Frostbite, which occurs when the skin and body tissue just beneath it freezes. Loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, earlobes, face, and the tip of the nose. If you experience frostbite, cover exposed skin, but do not rub the affected area in an attempt to warm it up. Seek medical help immediately!
- Watch for Hypothermia, which is a dangerously low body temperature, along with uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If your friend has a temperature is below 95°, seek medical attention immediately. Get the victim to a warm location. Remove wet clothing. Warm the center of the body first by wrapping the person in blankets or putting on dry clothing. Give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Seek medical help immediately!
- Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.
- Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
