A strong snowstorm can wipe out visibility, rendering roads too dangerous to cross. Snow turns to slush under the pressure of tires. Being stuck in a snowstorm on foot can be even scarier, because the entire landscape is obscured. In either case, it is important to assess how dangerous the situation is and then take shelter until the storm passes. Waiting for the weather to clear can prevent deadly missteps and help you survive a snowstorm in the outdoors.
Vehicles
A person traveling in a car has an advantage in the challenge to survive a snowstorm. The vehicle itself is excellent shelter. As weather encroaches, it is imperative that you slow down and not try to outrun traffic that is slowing down as well. Trying to beat traffic will only lead to a crunch of cars that is too dense to effectively advance.
As weather becomes progressively worse, many drivers will pull over and wait out the storm. It would be wise to find a spot and follow suit. If rescue becomes necessary, government personnel will find a large chain of cars easier than a lone car far away from others and will likely be able to secure a rescue in a more timely manner. While you wait, keep the car running at intervals to prevent the motor from freezing and to provide as much heat as possible inside the vehicle.
Related article: 10 Survival Tips for Winter Camping
Foot
If you happen to be on foot, seek shelter as soon as possible. As the storm worsens, the landscape may steadily become more obscured by snow drifts, distorting landmarks. Any shelter will help you survive a snowstorm, because wind chill is virtually eliminated. Snow itself is an excellent insulator, and being surrounded by snow will result in a temperature around 32 degrees. You can create a snow shelter somewhat easily, depending on conditions, within an hour or so.
If there is no man made shelter nearby, shelter can be improvised under a tree or even in a pile of hay or leaves. If there is enough snow to build a barrier to create a tree well, you can ride out the worst of the storm in this shelter. Keep your body curled up to retain body heat through the duration of your stay. When able set out in search of rescue when the snow stops and visibility improves.
If you live in an area that is prone to heavy snowfalls and unpredictable weather, it is in your best interest to keep an emergency pack on you or in your car at all times, which should included an emergency blanket, firestarters, signaling devices, and emergency food and water at the very least.
Related article: How to Build a Survival Snow Shelter
Featured Image from Alexey Elfimov/Unsplash
