Weather
Pennsylvania Winter 2026/27 Safety: Frostbite vs. Hypothermia Explained
Philadelphia, PA – As Pennsylvania moves toward winter, residents across Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg and communities throughout the Keystone State are being reminded of two potenti
By Evan Cross · 2026-11-04T16:36:32.455Z
Philadelphia, PA – As Pennsylvania moves toward winter, residents across Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg and communities throughout the Keystone State are being reminded of two potentially life threatening cold weather conditions: frostbite and hypothermia. Although both result from exposure to cold, they affect the body differently and can become serious medical emergencies.
According to the National Weather Service, dressing in layers, covering exposed skin and limiting time outdoors are important precautions during cold weather. Wind, moisture and prolonged exposure can increase the risk of cold related injuries, particularly for people working outdoors or traveling during winter conditions.
Frostbite vs. Hypothermia: What's the Difference?
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, most commonly affecting fingers, toes, ears, noses and other exposed areas.
Early symptoms include numbness, tingling, unusual skin discoloration and skin that feels hard or waxy. Severe cases can result in permanent tissue damage.
Hypothermia, however, develops when the body's internal temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, extreme fatigue and poor coordination. In severe cases, shivering may stop, signaling a potentially life threatening emergency.
What Should Pennsylvania Residents Do?
Anyone showing signs of hypothermia should receive immediate medical attention. Call 911, move the person indoors, remove wet clothing and wrap them in dry blankets while awaiting emergency assistance.
For suspected frostbite, avoid rubbing affected skin or applying direct heat. Seek medical care promptly.
The National Weather Service also encourages residents to protect pets, insulate exposed pipes, prepare for possible power outages and check on older adults and vulnerable neighbors.
Pennsylvania's mountain regions, exposed rural areas and urban communities can all experience dangerous cold exposure, especially when wind and wet clothing accelerate heat loss.
The critical difference: Frostbite freezes and damages body tissue, while hypothermia dangerously lowers the body's core temperature. Both conditions can occur simultaneously.