Wind Chill
Overview
Wind chill is the perceived decrease in temperature caused by wind accelerating heat loss from exposed skin. It is a key factor in assessing cold-weather comfort and safety.
Key points
- Represents the combined effect of wind and cold.
- Increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
- More pronounced at high elevations or exposed terrain.
- Guides clothing and shelter decisions.
- Important for planning winter or shoulder-season travel.
Details
Wind strips heat from the body more quickly than still air, lowering perceived temperature even when ambient temperatures appear moderate. In exposed environments such as ridges or open valleys, wind chill becomes a significant factor.
Windproof layers, sheltering strategies, and careful timing help mitigate wind-related heat loss during backcountry travel.
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Illustrative hiking footage
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