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We occasionally get the question, "What exactly is wind chill factor and why can't water freeze when the wind chill is below freezing?" The folks at Earth Gauge just happened to send a concise, accurate answer to that very question:

Chillin' Winds

Windchill temperature measures how cold humans and animals feel when they are outdoors, based on how cold air and wind affect the rate at which heat is lost from the body. When wind increases, it reduces skin temperature and eventually your internal body temperature by drawing heat away from the body. While wind makes you feel much colder, it does not lower the temperature of inanimate objects, such as pipes or car radiators. For example, it if is five degrees Fahrenheit outside, and the windchill is is -15 degrees Fahrenheit, inanimate objects will only cool to five degrees, but wind can reduce the time it takes them to cool to that temperature. The best way to stay safe during extremely cold weather is to limit your time outdoors and dress appropriately. Adults and kids should wear a hat, gloves or mittens, layered, long sleeved clothing, and a water-resistant, warm jacket. Use a scarf or knit mask to cover your face and mouth. When you must be outside, watch for signals of heat-loss - persistent shivering is a sign that you should head inside. Don't forget to bring pets inside, too. (Sources: NOAA National Weather Service. "Wind Chill Terms and Definitions." http://www.weather.gov/os/windchill/windchillglossary.
shtml; NOAA NWS. "NWS Windchill Chart." http://www.weather.gov/os/windchill/index.shtml; Centers for Disease Control. "Extreme Cold: A Prevention Guide to Promote Your Personal Health and Safety." http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/pdf/cold_guide.
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Chris_Dunn's Blog

What is Wind Chill Factor?

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