Michigan Wind Chill Myths: Why it ISN’T What You Think

As a lifelong Michigan resident like you, I have heard of, uttered, and cursed the weather term known as "Wind Chill." As if snow, ice, and an endlessly gray sky weren't enough, we also have to deal with a wind chill that turns a manageable 25-degree day into a freeze-your-face-off day of misery. But what is wind chill, and what does it have against Michigan?

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Wind chill is basically Mother Nature's way of saying to Michigan, "Oh, look at you all warm and cozy...let me do something about that. " Then, BAM! You step out into the wind, and it feels like you're standing in front of an industrial fan while soaking wet,. You're instantly chilled to your core.

What is Wind Chill, Really?

The wind chill isn't the actual temperature. It's the perceived temperature. So when you're standing outside, sheltered from the wind on a day when the temperature is 32, it feels like 32.

Now, when you step into a strong wing, the cold air and wind team up to rob your body of every last bit of warmth, the National Weather Service's (NWS) Bob Oravec spoke with Popular Science and described it this way: "...think of yourself as a soup, and then the wind is somebody blowing on you."

No, It's Not a Conspiracy

Some people think meteorologists are being dramatic when they say, "It feels like -20°F." But it's actually based on science. When the wind blows, it strips away the insulating layer of warm air around your skin, making you lose heat faster. The stronger the wind, the faster you freeze. Simple math: Cold + Wind = Sadness.

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But, your car doesn't care about wind chill, it only cares about the actual temperature. Your exposed skin? That's another story. Wind chill can speed up frostbite, meaning your fingers might turn into icicles before you even finish scrapping your windshield.

The Key to Surviving Michigan's Wind Chill

Layers—period. All of the layers. Do you wear a face mask? Wear two. Put on all your gloves, sweatshirts, T-shirts, hoodies, and coats. Do whatever it takes to avoid becoming a human popsicle.

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Stay bundled up, Michigan. Winter isn't leaving anytime soon, and its nasty little sidekick, the wind chill, is always not far behind.