10 Winter Weather Misconceptions Debunked: What You Get Wrong About the Cold

As soon as the temperature drops, everyone becomes an expert on the freeze. From old folklore about cows to survival tips that might actually kill you, winter myths are everywhere. But how much of this repeated wisdom holds up under scientific scrutiny? We're taking a closer look at 10 winter weather misconceptions to separate fact from fiction.

10 Winter Weather Misconceptions Debunked: Science vs. Folklore

It's a classic warning: "Bundle up or you'll catch a cold." However, cold weather itself doesn't cause colds. These illnesses are viral infections spread by people, not the thermometer. The reason we get sicker in winter is that we spend more time clustered together indoors. Similarly, the idea that cows lie down before it rains or snows is a myth; a survey by the UK Met Office found two-thirds of people believe it, but cows actually just rest whenever they feel like it.

• Salt doesn't technically melt ice; it lowers the freezing point depression, keeping water liquid at lower temperatures.
• A blizzard is defined by wind speed, requiring sustained gusts of 35 mph or more, not just heavy snowfall.
• Snow can fall when it's above freezing, often up to 2ºC (35ºF), depending on atmospheric conditions.

Surviving the Freeze: Hypothermia and Heat Loss

Falling into icy water is terrifying, but it won't cause instant hypothermia. It typically takes up to 60 minutes for the condition to set in. Most immediate fatalities are due to shock-induced drowning. Once the initial 1-2 minute shock passes, you have about 30 minutes to get out. Also, the claim that you lose 90% of heat through your head is a gross exaggeration; heat loss is generally proportional to the amount of exposed skin.