Understanding Wind Chill
Wind chill temperature represents what the air temperature "feels like" on exposed skin, accounting for the cooling effect of wind. As wind speed increases, heat loss from your body accelerates, making conditions feel much colder than the actual temperature.
💡 Wind Chill in Mountains
At high altitude, wind speeds are typically much higher than in valleys. A -15°C day with 50 km/h winds creates a wind chill of -27°C — conditions where exposed skin can freeze in under 2 minutes.
Frostbite Risk Guidelines
- Above -10°C: Minimal risk for most people
- -10°C to -27°C: Exposed skin can freeze in 10-30 minutes
- -28°C to -39°C: Exposed skin can freeze in 5-10 minutes
- -40°C to -47°C: Exposed skin can freeze in 2-5 minutes
- Below -48°C: Exposed skin freezes in under 2 minutes
Protecting Yourself
- Always cover all exposed skin in cold, windy conditions
- Wear windproof outer layers even when temperature seems mild
- Use balaclava and goggles above the snowline
- Check companions regularly for signs of frostbite