Winter storms in Jersey City, New Jersey, can create more than travel problems and inconvenient school or business closures. Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, strong winds, ice, power outages, and blocked roads can create serious health risks for residents. People may face dangers while shoveling sidewalks, walking through icy streets, waiting for transportation, trying to stay warm during a power outage, or using emergency heating equipment.

Jersey City also has a mix of apartment buildings, older homes, high-rise residences, densely populated neighborhoods, and waterfront areas. These conditions can affect how residents experience a major winter storm. A person living in a high-rise apartment may have different challenges from someone responsible for clearing snow from a private driveway. Someone who depends on daily prescription medication may face another problem if roads become difficult to travel.

Knowing the health risks before severe weather arrives can help residents make safer decisions. If you have a heart condition, for example, check the Jersey City winter storm warning today before deciding whether to shovel. An active winter storm can make strenuous outdoor work more dangerous, particularly when heavy, wet snow and cold temperatures occur together.

Why Winter Storms Can Become a Health Emergency

A winter storm can affect health directly through exposure to cold and indirectly by disrupting normal routines. Emergency medical services may have more difficulty reaching some locations when roads are covered with snow or ice. Pharmacies may have reduced hours, public transportation can be delayed, and people with chronic conditions may have difficulty obtaining medications or attending appointments.

Power failures create another layer of risk. Homes can become dangerously cold, while attempts to generate heat can introduce carbon monoxide into indoor spaces. People may also spend more time indoors with limited daylight, which can affect mood and sleep.

These risks are not limited to people who spend hours outdoors. Older adults, infants, people with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, people with limited mobility, individuals experiencing homelessness, and anyone without reliable heating may be especially vulnerable.

Heart Attack Risk From Snow Shoveling

Snow shoveling is physically demanding exercise. During a winter storm, the heart has to work against the effects of cold while the person is also lifting, pushing, and carrying snow. Cold temperatures can increase the strain placed on the cardiovascular system, and sudden intense exertion may be particularly concerning for people with known heart disease or other cardiovascular risk factors.

Wet snow can be especially difficult because it is heavier than loose, powdery snow. Repeatedly lifting a loaded shovel can quickly become strenuous. People who are normally inactive may also underestimate how much physical effort is involved.

Residents with heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of cardiovascular problems should follow their healthcare professional's advice about strenuous activity in cold weather. During severe conditions, arranging for another person to handle heavy snow removal may be safer than attempting the task alone.

Warning signs of a heart attack

Chest pressure, squeezing, or discomfort is a well-known warning sign, but heart attacks can also involve shortness of breath, unusual tiredness, nausea, lightheadedness, or discomfort affecting the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw. Symptoms can vary between individuals.

Do not assume that chest discomfort is simply the result of exertion or cold air. If symptoms suggest a possible heart attack, seek emergency medical attention immediately rather than trying to finish the snow-clearing job.

How to reduce shoveling risk

• Avoid strenuous snow removal if your healthcare professional has advised against it.
• Warm up gradually rather than beginning with sudden heavy exertion.
• Take frequent breaks.
• Push snow when practical instead of repeatedly lifting it.
• Use a smaller shovel load when snow is heavy.
• Dress in layers and keep your hands, feet, head, and face protected.
• Stop immediately if you experience chest discomfort, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, or severe weakness.

Recognizing Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Although it is associated with very cold conditions, prolonged exposure to wet or damp conditions can also contribute to hypothermia at temperatures above freezing.

Winter storms can increase the risk because people may become stranded outdoors, lose home heating, or become wet while clearing snow. A person who falls into cold water or becomes soaked by melting snow is also vulnerable.

Early warning signs can include shivering, fatigue, poor coordination, confusion, and difficulty using the hands. As hypothermia becomes more severe, symptoms may include memory problems, slurred speech, drowsiness, and reduced awareness.

One of the most dangerous aspects of hypothermia is that the affected person may not recognize what is happening. Confusion and impaired coordination can make it difficult to seek help or make sensible decisions.

What to do if hypothermia is suspected

Move the person into a warm, sheltered environment and remove wet clothing. Cover the person with dry blankets or clothing and focus on warming the center of the body. Warm, non-alcoholic drinks may be appropriate for an alert person who can safely swallow.