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Effects of Blizzards on People & Land

Lots of snow might not sound like a bad thing especially in places that rarely get snow. Kids welcome snow as it allows them to a chance at activities such as building snowmen or having snow fights with their friends. However, too much snow along with gusty winds can present dangerous road conditions. Snow from a blizzard can accumulate on buildings leading to collapses. Things like this make it beneficial for anyone in blizzard prone areas to have information on the effects of blizzards.

  1. Frostbite And Hypothermia

    • The wind chill factor resulting from a blizzard can lead to hypothermia and frostbite. Between 1999 and 2002, more than 4,600 people in the United States died of hypothermia-related diagnoses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you lose the feeling in your fingers and toes in cold weather, then this is a sign that frostbite might be setting in. If you can't stop your body from shivering, then you may be showing signs of hypothermia and should seek medical care.

    Power Loss

    • The wind and ice from a blizzard can bring down power lines and cut off power to entire communities for sometimes weeks at a time. Before a blizzard, stock up on key items such as candles and blankets. Have bottled water and non-perishable food on hand since refrigerators and freezers will be powerless. A radio that can run on batteries will allow you to stay updated on the conditions of the weather.

    Travel Troubles

    • The snow and ice from a blizzard can make roads slippery or obscure drivers' views, leading to automobile accidents. Blizzards also can cause simple traffic accidents to become disasters. In February 2011, hundreds of motorists were stranded along Lakeshore Drive in Chicago overnight after minor accidents blocked the roadway and snow accumulated quickly, making the road impassible.

    Crop Damage

    • Blizzard conditions affect agricultural land, sometimes cause problems in several states and in several industries at once. Freezing temperatures damage crops and kill livestock. Heavy snow blocks deliveries and affects food processing and production. Food production becomes more expensive and costs are passed onto the consumer.

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