Weather
Vermont Winter Weather Awareness Week Oct 25-31: When Wind Makes Cold Deadly
Montpelier, VT – How long could you stay outside before freezing temperatures begin damaging your skin? For Vermont residents, the answer depends on more than the thermometer. When strong winds combin
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-10-26T06:43:08.722Z
Montpelier, VT – How long could you stay outside before freezing temperatures begin damaging your skin? For Vermont residents, the answer depends on more than the thermometer. When strong winds combine with bitter cold, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes or less under extreme conditions.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , wind chill describes how cold the air feels on exposed skin based on the combined effects of wind speed and temperature. Stronger winds remove heat from the body faster, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
For example, when the air temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit and winds reach 20 mph, the wind chill is approximately 22 degrees below zero.
How Quickly Can Frostbite Develop? The lower the wind chill, the faster exposed skin can freeze.
NWS wind chill guidance indicates that frostbite may develop in approximately 30 minutes at wind chills around 20 degrees below zero. At more extreme values, exposed skin may freeze in 10 minutes or less.
Warning signs include numbness, unusually pale or waxy skin and reduced sensation. Hypothermia can cause intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech and drowsiness.
What's the Difference Between an Extreme Cold Watch and Warning? An Extreme Cold Watch means dangerously cold conditions are possible. Residents should prepare and monitor forecasts.
An Extreme Cold Warning means dangerously cold conditions are expected or occurring. Avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure and wear protective clothing when going outside.
Wind chill does not lower the temperature of vehicles, water pipes or other objects below the actual air temperature. However, wind can make those objects cool toward the air temperature more quickly.
How Can Vermont Residents Protect Themselves? Before extreme cold arrives:
Cover exposed skin: Wear insulated gloves, hats, scarves and wind resistant outerwear. Dress in layers: Choose warm, dry clothing and replace wet garments promptly. Limit exposure: Take warming breaks and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during extreme cold warnings. Prepare emergency supplies: Keep blankets, food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries and charged power banks available. Stock vehicles: Carry extra clothing, blankets, a phone charger, ice scraper and emergency supplies. Never operate generators, grills or outdoor fuel burning heaters inside homes or garages because of deadly carbon monoxide risks.
Why It Matters Across Vermont From Burlington and Chittenden County to Montpelier, Stowe, Rutland, Brattleboro and St. Johnsbury, dangerous wind chills can affect communities statewide.
The Northeast Kingdom, including Newport and communities near the Canadian border, can experience especially severe winter cold.
Strong winds across the Champlain Valley and exposed mountain ridgelines can increase heat loss from uncovered skin. Skiers, hikers and outdoor workers face additional risks when temperatures fall rapidly.
Travelers along Interstate 89, Interstate 91 and U.S. Route 2 should prepare for possible vehicle breakdowns and prolonged exposure during winter weather.
As Winter Weather Awareness Week continues through Saturday, October 31, residents are encouraged to review emergency supplies and monitor official NWS forecasts.
Remember: Wind chill doesn't change the air temperature. It changes how quickly your body loses heat — and how quickly exposed skin can become injured.