Cold-related illnesses: Cold weather can impact health
During the winter months in Minnesota, the temperature outside can be very cold. Exposure to cold temperatures, winter weather conditions, or cold water can have negative impacts on your health. When exposed to the cold, your body can lose heat faster than it can be produced. This can lead to cold-related illness or even death.
Cold-related illness includes many health problems such as hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot, or chilblains, that occur when the body becomes too cold. While these health problems are most likely at very cold temperatures, they can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes cold from wind, rain, sweat, or cold water.
For more information on cold-related illness, winter weather, and climate change:
• The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Climate & Health Program has tools and resources about climate change and health in Minnesota. Climate and Health Impacts-MDH
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention developed resources for emergency preparedness and response for Winter Weather: Before, During, and After-CDC.
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has information and resources for workers who may experience cold stress. Working in the Cold-NIOSH
• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also has information available on winter weather preparation for businesses and workers. Winter Weather-OSHA