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Health Risks During Winter Storms in Colorado Spri
Health Risks During Winter Storms in Colorado Spri
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Guest
Guest
Jul 22, 2026
5:37 AM
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Winter storms are a familiar part of life in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Nestled along the Front Range at an elevation of more than 6,000 feet, the city experiences a mix of heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, strong winds, blowing snow, and rapidly changing weather conditions throughout the winter months. While many residents enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and the scenic beauty of fresh snow covering Pikes Peak, winter weather also introduces significant health risks that should never be underestimated.
From cardiovascular emergencies caused by snow shoveling to dangerous carbon monoxide exposure during power outages, severe winter weather affects nearly every aspect of personal health. Cold temperatures challenge the body's ability to maintain normal function, while icy roads may delay emergency medical care or make it difficult to reach pharmacies and healthcare facilities.
Understanding these health hazards before the next storm arrives allows families to make safer decisions, prepare emergency supplies, and recognize warning signs before minor problems become life-threatening.
Winter Weather in Colorado Springs Creates Unique Medical Challenges
Colorado Springs presents unique winter health concerns because of its elevation, dry climate, and rapidly changing weather patterns. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically within a single day. Sunshine may melt snow during the afternoon, only for roads and sidewalks to refreeze into dangerous sheets of black ice after sunset.
Heavy snowfall combined with high winds increases physical exertion, particularly for homeowners clearing driveways and sidewalks. The thinner air at higher elevation also means the heart and lungs already work harder compared to lower elevations, making strenuous winter activities more demanding.
Winter storms may also isolate neighborhoods, delay deliveries, interrupt power, and make routine healthcare access more difficult.
Heart Attack Risk From Snow Shoveling
Among the most serious winter storm health risks is the increased likelihood of heart attacks during snow removal.
Every winter, emergency departments across snowy regions treat patients who suffer cardiac events while clearing driveways, sidewalks, or roofs.
Snow shoveling combines several dangerous factors:
Intense upper-body exertion
Cold air constricting blood vessels
Elevated blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Heavy lifting
Slippery footing
Reduced oxygen availability at high elevation
The combination dramatically increases the workload placed on the cardiovascular system.
Individuals most at risk include:
Adults over age 50
People with coronary artery disease
Individuals with high blood pressure
Smokers
Diabetics
People with obesity
Anyone with previous heart attacks or strokes
Many people mistakenly assume shoveling is similar to walking. In reality, lifting heavy wet snow repeatedly is closer to vigorous weightlifting combined with aerobic exercise.
If you have a heart condition, check the Colorado Springs winter storm warning today before deciding whether to shovel—during an active warning, heavy wet snow combined with cold air significantly increases cardiac risk.
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Seek emergency medical care immediately if someone experiences:
Chest pain or pressure
Pain spreading to the jaw, shoulder, neck, or arm
Shortness of breath
Sudden nausea
Cold sweat
Dizziness
Unusual fatigue
Feeling faint
Women, older adults, and diabetic patients may experience less obvious symptoms, making early recognition even more important.
Safer Snow Removal Tips
Reduce cardiac strain by:
Pushing snow instead of lifting it
Taking frequent breaks
Shoveling several lighter layers instead of waiting until snow accumulates deeply
Staying hydrated
Wearing warm clothing
Avoiding alcohol beforehand
Hiring assistance if medically high-risk
Using a snow blower when appropriate while still following safety precautions
Hypothermia: More Than Simply Feeling Cold
Hypothermia occurs when the body's core temperature falls below 95°F (35°C). It develops when heat loss exceeds heat production over time.
Although Colorado Springs residents are accustomed to cold weather, hypothermia remains a serious concern during prolonged outdoor exposure, particularly when wind speeds increase dramatically.
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