Winter storms in Las Cruces, New Mexico, can create health risks that extend well beyond cold temperatures and slippery roads. A storm can interrupt electricity, restrict travel, delay access to medications, make outdoor work dangerous, and place additional strain on people with heart or respiratory conditions. Even residents who are accustomed to the area's generally dry climate should take unusual winter weather seriously when snow, freezing temperatures, ice, or prolonged power outages occur.

The health risks also do not necessarily end when snowfall stops. Blocked heating vents, unsafe generator use, difficult road conditions, medication shortages, and delayed emergency transportation can create problems for days afterward. People who live alone, older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and anyone who must work outdoors may face additional challenges.

Checking local weather information before a storm is an important first step. If you have a heart condition, for example, check the Las Cruces winter storm warning today before deciding whether to shovel or travel. Understanding the specific hazards associated with winter storms can help residents make safer decisions before conditions deteriorate.

Why Winter Storms Can Become a Health Emergency

A winter storm can affect health through several pathways at the same time. Cold exposure can lower body temperature and damage exposed skin. Physical exertion during snow removal can increase cardiovascular strain. Power outages may lead people to use alternative heating or electricity sources incorrectly. Icy roads can delay ambulances, prevent patients from reaching pharmacies, and make routine medical appointments difficult.

Healthcare facilities also have to manage these conditions. Hospitals may experience increased emergency department visits while simultaneously dealing with transportation problems, staffing challenges, utility disruptions, and patients who cannot safely return home.

For households, the most useful approach is to prepare before the storm rather than waiting until conditions become hazardous.

Snow Shoveling and the Risk of Heart Attack

Snow removal can look like a simple household chore, but heavy shoveling can be strenuous exercise. Cold weather adds another physiological challenge because exposure to cold causes blood vessels to constrict and can raise blood pressure. Combining sudden intense exertion with cold exposure can put substantial stress on the cardiovascular system.

The American Heart Association warns that snow shoveling can increase the risk of heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest, particularly among people who are not accustomed to vigorous physical activity or who already have cardiovascular risk factors. Heavy, wet snow can make the task particularly demanding. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

People with known heart disease, previous heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or other cardiovascular risk factors should discuss strenuous winter activity with their healthcare professional. The American Heart Association specifically advises people with known or suspected heart disease or significant cardiovascular risk factors to have someone else handle snow removal. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

If you do perform light snow removal and have been medically cleared for the activity, avoid trying to clear a large area all at once. Take frequent breaks, dress warmly, and consider pushing snow rather than repeatedly lifting and throwing it. Do not ignore warning symptoms simply because the task seems almost finished.

Chest pressure or pain, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, faintness, unusual sweating, or an irregular or racing heartbeat can be warning signs of a serious cardiac problem. Stop immediately and seek emergency medical assistance when symptoms suggest a heart attack. Calling 911 is appropriate when symptoms are severe or do not quickly resolve with rest. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Recognizing Hypothermia Before It Becomes Life-Threatening

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Although people often associate it with extremely low temperatures, hypothermia can also occur in cool conditions when someone becomes wet from rain, melting snow, sweat, or other moisture. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Early symptoms can include shivering, tiredness, poor coordination, and difficulty concentrating. As the condition becomes more severe, a person may become confused, develop memory problems, have fumbling hands, experience slurred speech, or become very drowsy. Severe hypothermia can interfere with consciousness and normal breathing.

Older adults, babies, people without adequate heating, and individuals who remain outside for extended periods are particularly vulnerable. Alcohol can also increase risk because it can interfere with the body's ability to maintain temperature and impair judgment about cold exposure. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

If someone shows signs of hypothermia, move them into a warm shelter and remove wet clothing. Wrap the person in dry blankets or clothing and focus on warming the center of the body. A person with a temperature below 95°F should receive immediate medical attention. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Do not assume that someone is safe simply because they have stopped complaining about being cold. Confusion and drowsiness can actually indicate that hypothermia is progressing.

Frostbite: What It Looks Like and What to Do

Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of body tissue. It commonly affects fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks, and chin. Early signs can include redness or pain, followed by numbness. More advanced frostbite may cause skin to appear white, grayish-yellow, firm, or waxy. Because numb tissue loses sensation, a person may not realize how serious the injury is. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

The first priority is to get out of the cold. Move indoors or into another warm shelter and remove wet clothing. Medical evaluation is important, particularly when there is significant discoloration, persistent numbness, blistering, severe pain, or extensive tissue involvement.

If immediate medical treatment is not available, the CDC recommends warming frostbitten areas in warm, not hot, water. Water should feel comfortably warm to unaffected skin. If water is unavailable, body heat can be used, such as placing frostbitten fingers gently in an armpit. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}