Winter storms are a familiar part of life in Boston, Massachusetts, but familiarity should not make them seem harmless. A major snowstorm can create several health threats at the same time: intense physical exertion while clearing snow, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, dangerous ice conditions, power outages, disrupted transportation, medication-access problems, and increased pressure on emergency medical services. For some Boston residents, particularly older adults, people with cardiovascular disease, people with limited mobility, individuals who live alone, and those who depend on electricity for medical equipment, a severe storm can become a medical emergency even if they never leave their homes.

Boston's dense neighborhoods, narrow streets, sidewalks, multi-unit housing, and heavy transportation demand can make storm-related disruptions particularly complicated. Snow and ice can slow ambulances, make pharmacy trips difficult, and prevent patients from reaching scheduled appointments. At the same time, residents who try to solve problems themselves may take unnecessary risks, such as shoveling heavy snow despite heart disease or operating a generator too close to a building. Boston's own winter safety guidance recommends limiting outdoor activity during storms, preparing for power outages, planning for medical needs, and keeping heating exhaust vents clear after snowfall.

Understanding the major health risks before the next storm is therefore an important part of winter preparedness. If you have a heart condition, check the Boston winter storm warning today before deciding whether to shovel — during an active warning, heavy wet snow combined with cold air can place substantial stress on the cardiovascular system.

Snow Shoveling and the Risk of Heart Attack

Snow shoveling may look like a routine household chore, but it can be surprisingly strenuous exercise. The combination of lifting, pushing, twisting, and repeatedly moving heavy snow can rapidly increase heart rate and blood pressure. Cold temperatures add another layer of stress because exposure to cold causes blood vessels to constrict, which can raise blood pressure and increase the workload placed on the heart. The American Heart Association warns that heavy snow shoveling can increase the risk of heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest, particularly among people who are not accustomed to vigorous physical activity.

The risk can become greater when snow is wet and heavy. A person may start shoveling after sitting indoors for hours, underestimate the effort required, and then repeatedly lift large loads. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, a history of smoking, known heart disease, or a previous heart attack or stroke should be especially cautious. The American Heart Association specifically recommends that people with known or suspected heart disease or significant cardiovascular risk factors consider having someone else handle snow removal.

Warning signs should never be dismissed as simple exhaustion. Chest pressure, squeezing or pain, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, faintness, unusual sweating, nausea, or a racing or irregular heartbeat can indicate a serious cardiac problem. Stop shoveling immediately if concerning symptoms develop. If symptoms suggest a heart attack or another emergency, call 911 rather than attempting to drive yourself to a hospital.

For people without significant medical risk who do clear snow, pacing matters. Push snow when possible instead of repeatedly lifting it, take frequent breaks, dress in warm layers, avoid becoming overheated or soaked, and do not suddenly attempt to clear a large driveway or sidewalk at maximum effort. Boston residents should also remember that snow removal is not necessarily an emergency that must be completed immediately. During severe conditions, waiting until conditions improve or arranging assistance may be much safer.

Recognizing Hypothermia Before It Becomes Life-Threatening

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing core body temperature to fall below approximately 95°F (35°C). It can occur during very cold weather, but prolonged exposure to wet clothing, rain, sweat, wind, or cold water can also contribute. Older adults, young children, people without adequate heating or shelter, and individuals who remain outdoors for extended periods face greater risks.

Early symptoms may include shivering, fatigue, clumsiness, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech, and drowsiness. As hypothermia becomes more severe, a person can lose coordination and awareness and eventually become unconscious. One dangerous feature is that the affected person may not recognize how seriously ill they have become.

If hypothermia is suspected, move the person into a warm environment as quickly as possible. Remove wet clothing and replace it with dry layers or blankets. Warm the center of the body, especially the chest, neck, head, and groin. If the person is awake and able to swallow safely, warm nonalcoholic drinks may help. Severe hypothermia is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Do not rely on alcohol to warm someone; alcohol can interfere with judgment and contribute to heat loss.

Boston residents should pay particular attention to people who live alone. During a long storm, checking on an older neighbor, relative, or friend can help identify a heating failure or cold-related illness before it becomes critical. A simple phone call can be especially important when snow and ice make travel difficult.