COLUMBIA, S.C. — A strong cold front bringing in an arctic air mass will move into the Midlands this week. On Friday, strong winds are expected with gusts up 40 miles per hour. If you have to leave the house, wind chill is a great tool to help prepare yourself for the outdoors, but what does it really mean?
Wind chill is a term used to describe the temperature your skin will feel due to cold temperatures and winds blowing. In simple terms, the cooler temperatures are and the faster the winds gust, the colder you will feel. This scientific process is called convection. The warm air molecules our bodies emit are blown away and replaced by cooler air molecules.
Wind chill can lead to frostbite and ultimately, hypothermia. As wind chill values may drop below 0 degrees in the coming days, it is important to protect yourself. The National Weather Service says to follow these tips when cold weather threatens.
Stay dry. Wet clothing results in much faster heat loss from your body.
Stay covered. Wear mittens or gloves, and wear a hat.
Dress layered. Trapped air between loose fitting clothing helps to insulate.
Stay informed. Have a portable weather radio nearby. Use wind chill temperatures to guide you in dressing properly for the outdoors. On very cold days, minimize your exposure to the outdoors if possible.