The power, secret and wonder of wind may caress you gently on the cheek or viciously batter you around, ripping the snot right out of your face. Much media focuses on snow reports this time of year, but what about the mighty wind? Be wise and factor it into your trip plan. Wind speed and wind chill, decide for us, whether we’ll proceed or abort an outing.
As winter approaches, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the list of wind hazards below. Are there more?
10 Wind hazards worth consideration
1. Swirling debris, ever been pummeled with ice and rocks?
2. Snow transport, avalanche potential on snow-loaded slopes.
3. Reduced visibility, disorientation in whiteout conditions.
4. Muffled communication, near impossible to hear a partner’s voice.
5. Ropes fly up/out, leaving a tangled mess and freeze rapidly.
6. Loose gear blows away. Without mittens, frostbite sets in fast.
7. Frostnip, frostbite, hypothermia.
8. Eyelashes freeze eyes shut.
9. Liquids freeze, leading to dehydration.
10. Food freezes, denying you calories.
Later this week, I’ll include some tips on mitigating these wind hazards.
To read more about the hazards of wind checkout the Natural Hazards web site.
Have fun and be safe out there!
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