In winter, the combination of wind and low temperature can be deadly, leading to conditions like frostbite and hypothermia.

The wind chill index helps assess the danger by considering heat loss from the body in cold and windy weather. For instance, a temperature of minus 5 degrees with a 20 mph wind results in a wind chill near minus 30 degrees, indicating the body loses heat as if the air temperature were minus 30 with no wind. Frostbite, the freezing of skin and tissue, is possible at wind chill values near minus 25 degrees.

To prevent frostbite, ensure all body parts are covered. If frostbite occurs, warm the affected area against warm skin.

Hypothermia, a dangerously low body temperature, is a common winter weather threat. It can happen even at temperatures between 30 and 50 degrees, especially if clothing is wet.

The National Weather Service advises these safety tip: stay dry, wear waterproof boots, cover head and hands, dress in layers, and Minimize outdoor exposure on extremely cold days.