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Health Risks During Winter Storms in Juneau, Alask
Health Risks During Winter Storms in Juneau, Alask
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Guest
Guest
Jul 19, 2026
3:36 AM
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Winter storms are a familiar part of life in Juneau, Alaska. Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, strong winds, icy roads, and prolonged periods of cold weather can create dangerous conditions that affect every aspect of daily life. While most residents prepare for power outages, transportation disruptions, and property damage, the health risks associated with winter storms are often underestimated.
Cold weather can place tremendous stress on the human body. Heart attacks become more common during snowstorms, frostbite and hypothermia can develop faster than many people realize, and carbon monoxide poisoning remains one of the leading preventable causes of winter-related deaths. Extended periods of darkness and isolation can also contribute to mental health challenges, while road closures may delay access to pharmacies and emergency medical care.
Understanding these health risks allows individuals and families to make informed decisions before severe weather arrives. Preparing early, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to seek medical attention can significantly reduce the chances of serious illness or injury during Alaska's harsh winter conditions.
Why Winter Storms Pose Serious Health Risks
Winter weather affects nearly every organ system in the body. Cold temperatures force blood vessels to constrict, making the heart work harder to circulate blood. Snow and ice increase the likelihood of slips and falls, while limited mobility can delay emergency response times. In communities like Juneau, where geography and weather already present transportation challenges, winter storms may temporarily isolate neighborhoods or make travel difficult.
Older adults, infants, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and people with disabilities are especially vulnerable. However, even healthy adults can experience severe medical emergencies when exposed to extreme cold or strenuous outdoor activity.
Preparation should begin well before the first snowfall rather than after conditions become hazardous.
Heart Attack Risk from Snow Shoveling
One of the most overlooked winter health hazards is the increased risk of heart attacks during snow removal. Shoveling snow combines several dangerous factors into one activity.
Heavy snow requires intense physical exertion. Cold air causes blood vessels to narrow, increasing blood pressure while reducing oxygen delivery to the heart. At the same time, lifting wet snow repeatedly elevates heart rate and cardiac workload.
Many people shovel immediately after waking, before eating breakfast or taking prescribed medications, further increasing cardiovascular strain.
Individuals at greatest risk include:
Adults over age fifty
People with high blood pressure
Individuals with diabetes
Smokers
Anyone with known heart disease
People who are physically inactive throughout the year
Warning signs of a heart attack may include:
Chest pain or pressure
Pain spreading to the jaw, shoulders, neck, or arms
Shortness of breath
Sudden nausea
Cold sweat
Extreme fatigue
Lightheadedness
If you have a heart condition, check the Juneau winter storm warning today before deciding whether to shovel — during an active warning, heavy wet snow combined with cold air significantly increases cardiac risk.
Whenever possible, use a snow blower, hire assistance, or divide snow removal into smaller sessions with frequent breaks. Avoid lifting large amounts of wet snow at once, stay hydrated, and stop immediately if any concerning symptoms develop.
Recognizing Hypothermia Before It Becomes Life-Threatening
Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 95°F (35°C), preventing the body from functioning normally. It can develop gradually, making it difficult to recognize until symptoms become severe.
In Southeast Alaska, hypothermia does not require extreme Arctic temperatures. Wet clothing, freezing rain, strong winds, or prolonged exposure to temperatures just above freezing can all contribute to dangerous heat loss.
Early symptoms include:
Persistent shivering
Numb fingers
Fatigue
Poor coordination
Confusion
Slurred speech
Difficulty concentrating
As hypothermia progresses, symptoms become increasingly dangerous:
Violent shivering that eventually stops
Very slow breathing
Weak pulse
Loss of coordination
Severe confusion
Drowsiness
Unconsciousness
One of the greatest dangers is that individuals experiencing hypothermia often fail to recognize how impaired they have become.
Treatment begins by moving the person into a warm, dry environment. Remove wet clothing carefully and replace it with dry layers. Warm blankets should cover the body, particularly the chest, neck, and head.
If the person is conscious, warm beverages may help, but alcohol should never be used because it increases heat loss.
Emergency medical care is essential whenever hypothermia is moderate or severe.
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