How to Weather a Winter Storm when You're Stranded outdoors
If you are caught outdoors in a winter storm, keep the following tips in mind and you will weather the experience just fine.
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You Will Need
- Shelter
- Body coverings
- Scarf
- Shallow breaths
- Fire
- Melted snow
Steps
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Step 1
Find a shelter
Find a shelter. If you can't find one, make one. A "snow cave":http://www.howcast.com/videos/284338-How-To-Build-a-Snow-Cave or an improvised lean-to can provide good protection from a storm.
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Look for a shelter that will keep you dry. Avoid shelters that are dripping or letting in moisture.
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Step 2
Cover your body
Cover all exposed areas of your body so that you don't experience hypothermia. Keep your head covered to prevent loss of body heat.
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Step 3
Cover your mouth
Cover your mouth with a scarf so that you are not breathing cold air. Take shallow breaths so that you do not breathe cold air too deeply.
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Step 4
Avoid heavy exertion
Avoid heavy exertion, which can cause you to sweat and experience chills.
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Step 5
Build a fire
Build a fire and keep it burning. Melt some snow over the fire and drink the water when it is warm. With any luck, the storm will blow over soon, and you will be able to proceed on your way.
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"Wind chill" is how cold it feels when the effects of wind speed and cold temperatures are both considered.
