Weather Tidbits: Hypothermia

This edition of Weather Tidbits discusses hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs after long exposure to intense cold weather and the body temperature falls below 95 degrees. The temperature falls as the body uses up its stored energy in prolonged exposure to the intense cold. Some of the warning signs to look out for in the person before hypothermia occurs are confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, and stiff muscles. If these symptoms start showing up, it is imperative to take action and get to a warmer spot. If hypothermia does occur, quickly head indoors. Stay insulated with warm layers like blankets. Take a warm bath and dry with a warm towel, not hot. If the skin appears swollen, hard and numb, or perhaps blue or gray, go to the hospital right away.