Weather can help or hinder characters on their travels or set a mood (sometime to a cliche level, re: sadness = raining). It also helps us with world building, especially when we take into consideration the type of climate our story’s environment has.
Sometimes, authors just need help finding the words, but beyond that, your story may take place in a coastal town, however you live deep in the prairies and have never seen the ocean. Perhaps your character is in the desert, and you want something a little more nuanced than simply “it was hot and dry”. We’ve got you! In this case, we’ve got you for cold weather.
In this D-Script, like usual, we’ll delve into many subjects related to cold weather. We’ll cover everything from details of the weather conditions themselves, to handling driving (for those of you writing driving scenes in this type of weather), to first aid for cold-related injuries. Basically, anything you might need to write that scene!
Get Around This Post
Related Posts
Writing a winter survival scene? Don’t forget to check out Survival Skills: Surviving in the Mountains which has a lot of cold weather survival tips, even if your character isn’t in the mountains.
This area will fill in the more subjects we’re able to get to.
Cold Weather Conditions
What people perceive as cold weather can vary depending on the part of the world. For example, when I was younger my school band went on a trip to California in months Californians were bundling up. We, being from the Canadian Prairies, thought the weather was wonderful! So, here we were in shorts and t-shirts running into the ocean while the people who lived there stared at us like we’d lost our minds.
Another example would be when we, as Albertans, first go into winter -10°C (14°F) is very very cold. Give it a month and it may be -20°C (-4°F) that’s very cold. After a run of -35°C (-31°F) and that -10°C is positively balmy!
Not every place that experiences ‘cold’ weather experiences snow or ice, because what’s considered cold to some isn’t close enough to freezing temperatures. In this D-Script, we’re predominately dealing with freezing temperatures and colder. That said, some of these descriptions could be used for people experiencing the sensation of coldness. You may just want to skip the snow and ice parts depending on where your story takes place.
Not-So-Fun Fact: During the winter, the temperature may be one temp, but the wind may cause that temperature to feel colder. For example, it may be -20°C (-4°F) outside, but it may feel closer to -35°C (-31°F) because of the wind.
My Personal Gallery of “It’s Obviously Cold Outside”
To help with inspiration and for those of you who don’t live in in places where it’s OBVIOUSLY cold outside, here’s a gallery of my own personal photos that showcase cold weather:
Overlook of the foothills and mountains. Early winter. 
Early winter prairies 
Snow sticking to the paths but not visible many other places yet 
Described a lean-to and set my young kids to making one in the middle of the forest 
Picture showing bad traffic due to icy roads and winter fog 
Early winter and the rivers hadn’t frozen over completely yet 
Skeletal trees and a not completely frozen over river 
A good shot of ice fog 
Heavy snow in early winter decimated trees throughout the city 
Later, I talk about windshield freezing over. Here it is! 
Winter skies in the mountains 
Fog during the winter can be surreal 
These piles existed in multiple places. It was a very snowy winter. 
The beginning stages of freezing over of a slow river 
Not an uncommon site in winter 
Icicles can get MUCH bigger 
This one is pretty self-explanatory… 
That’s not a lake at the bottom left but a farm
Not-So-Fun Fact: During very cold temperatures, cars may not start. In Canada, block heaters in the engine are a must in most areas. These can be plugged in and keeps the engine and the fluids inside from freezing. Despite common thinking, idling a car to warm up the engine before driving is not necessary. It’s actually best to get moving once the engine is going. Extremely cold weather can also be problematic for electric only cars, not allowing them to charge or even resulting in frozen batteries.
Car Survival Kits Are Recommended, Even for In-City Driving
If you can’t get moving and you may be there for a while, it’s possible your car may run out of fuel to stay warm. This can happen even in the city. If there was a blizzard or very bad weather, tow trucks may take hours to be able to reach you.
BASIC SURVIVAL KIT
Cat Litter /Gravel/Traction Mats: This can help you get unstuck if the problem is ice
Shovel: You may need to dig snow out from around tires if it’s too deep or slushy for the car to move
Blankets/Sleeping Bags/Reflective Blankets: These provide warmth if you’re stranded
Warm Clothing: Extra hats, gloves, socks, and winter coats to layer up.
Flashlight: With extra batteries or a hand-cranked model.
First Aid Kit: Bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
Multi-tool or Knife: For cutting, prying, and other tasks.
Tow Strap or Rope: For assistance in pulling your vehicle out of snowbanks or ditches.
Jumper Cables/Booster Kit: To jump-start your car’s battery if it dies in the cold. If you don’t have a full booster kit with battery, this will require another vehicle.
Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: To clear windows, mirrors, and lights.
Cellphone Charger: With a car adapter or portable power bank.
Reflective Vest and Road Markers: To increase visibility to other drivers or rescuers.
Car Manual: For troubleshooting and guidance on your vehicle’s features.
Entertainment: Books, puzzles, or games to pass the time if you’re stranded for a while.
IF TRAVELLING AWAY FROM CITIES
Emergency Food: Non-perishable items like energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and canned goods with easy-open lids.
Water: Bottled water or a container to melt snow for drinking.
Whistle/Flares: To signal for help if needed.
Map and Compass: In case you need to navigate without GPS or cellular service.
Tire Chains or Winter Tires: Provide better traction in icy or snowy conditions.
Fuel Canister: With extra fuel to keep your vehicle running.
Snow Chains: Particularly useful for navigating hilly or mountainous terrain with icy roads.
If stuck on the road where help isn’t available, stay in the car. Don’t forget to check check the D-Script regarding how to survive in the mountains. This D-Script discusses why staying put can save your life. In this case, it’s partially because exposure is the fastest killer, and the car is at least shelter from the worst of the elements.
Freezing Weather and Windows
We get into things like frost under the ice section, but it should be noted that warm, humid indoor air and freezing temperatures outside can cause condensation to build up on windows, especially if they’re older or otherwise poorly insulated. This can cause windows to freeze over, making it difficult to open them, if they can be opened at all. It can also cause windows to be more brittle than you’d expect. I once had a bed under a window and was very sick. My boyfriend at the time tried to open the window for fresh air for me. He tapped it with his hand, and it exploded! Thankfully, nothing got in my eyes.
Snow
If you don’t live where there’s a lot of snow or don’t experience it that often, you may not be aware there are types of snow. Being a Canadian from a snowy province, I would be remiss to now talk about this, so…let’s talk snow!
Snow forms at a specific temperature range. That is, if it’s too warm, it comes down as rain. If it’s too cold, it is likely not to snow at all as it’s too cold for precipitation to gather. The process of snow formation involves the crystallization of ice crystals within a cloud, and the temperature plays a crucial role in determining the form of precipitation.
For snow to occur, the temperature range will typically be -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). You can see snow in colder temperatures, but it is less likely the colder it gets. For example, when temperatures drop well below freezing, such as below -40°C (-40°f), the air is too cold for significant moisture thus it’s unable to form snowflakes.
DID YOU KNOW: Heavy snow, especially during a sudden cold snap or extreme cold, can cause not only tree branches to break off but can also fell trees. After heavy snow, you’re likely to see heavily bowed branches, or the ground sprinkled (or covered even) in everything from twigs to huge branches. Pictures in the gallery above.
DRY SNOW
Dry snow has a low water content, and the snowflakes are typically small and powdery. It feels light and fluffy, and individual snowflakes may not stick together easily.
- Light and airy
- Powdery or granular texture
- Often associated with colder temperatures
- Good for activities like skiing and snowboarding
- Doesn’t pack so isn’t good for snowballs or snowmen
- Dry snow is less tricky to drive on as it can provide traction on ice
- Can sound like Styrofoam when stepped on, giving off a squeaky sound
WET SNOW (PACKING SNOW)
Wet snow has a higher water content, and the snowflakes tend to be larger and clump together more easily. It can have a heavier and stickier consistency. Wet snow is the type of snow that will get on your clothes and in your shoes, melt, and you to get wet.
- Heavy and compact
- Sticky and good for snowball making
- Often occurs when temperatures are closer to the freezing point
- Can create a wet and slushy layer on the ground
- Depending on how wet this snow is, it may make squishing noises underfoot
- Footwear may easily get wet
SLEET
Sleet happens when rain freezes into ice pellets before reaching the ground, but isn’t as severe as hail, which we’ll talk about later
- Often a mix of ice pelts, rain and/or snow
- Small ice pellets hard enough to bounce on the ground
- Can make the ground slippery, making travel more difficult
Blizzard
Blizzards are severe winter storms characterized by strong winds, heavy snowfall, and reduced visibility. These intense weather events pose significant hazards to both human life and infrastructure, making them one of the most dangerous and disruptive forms of winter weather. They cause strong sustained winds and significant visibility reduction due to blowing snow. They typically last for several hours. However, depending on the size and intensity of the storm system, they can last days.
Blizzards can have a wide range of impacts, including transportation issues, power outages, and damage to buildings and infrastructure. High winds can cause drifting snow and whiteout conditions, making travel extremely hazardous and leading to accidents and road closures. In rural areas, blizzards can strand motorists, posing serious risks to their safety.
In addition to their immediate dangers, blizzards can also have long-term consequences, such as avalanches, flooding from snowmelt, and damage to crops and livestock.
Communities in snowy areas have strategies to deal with snow accumulating during blizzards, such as snowplowing, salting roads, and closing schools and businesses. They may have “Snow Angel” programs which ask people to shovel the walks of their neighbours with potential mobility concerns.
Snow Squall
A snow squall is a sudden and intense burst of snowfall that comes with rapidly changing weather conditions and reduced visibility. These storms are often associated with strong winds and plummeting temperatures. Snow squalls can develop quickly and catch travelers off guard, creating hazardous driving conditions.
Snowstorms
Snowstorms vary in intensity, from light flurries to heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions, impacting transportation and daily life.
Communities in snowy areas have strategies to deal with snow accumulating during snowstorms, such as snowplowing, salting roads, and closing schools and businesses. They may have “Snow Angel” programs which ask people to shovel the walks of their neighbours with potential mobility concerns.
Snow Showers
Snow showers are brief bursts of moderate to heavy snowfall and are often accompanied by strong gusts of wind and reduced visibility. Unlike flurries, they bring more substantial accumulations of snow. Their intensity can vary, from light dustings to more substantial accumulations, depending on factors such as temperature, moisture content, and wind speed.
Flurries
Snow flurries are brief, light snow showers that have little impact on daily life. Unlike snowstorms, flurries typically last for short durations and produce minimal accumulation on the ground. These fleeting events often herald changing weather patterns, signaling the arrival of colder temperatures or the transition from autumn to winter or winter to spring.
Snow and Driving
There have been requests for how to write about driving, so I’m trying to add driving tips all through the posts about weather and similar.
Snow on the ground causes difficulty for drivers (GASP! I know that’s a surprise), the level of which is dependent on multiple factors. For example, dry snow is easier to drive in than wet snow as the powdery texture can create traction on ice. Wet snow, on the other hand, causes a lot of slipping, especially if it turns into slush or there is ice underneath. Either way, tires create friction with the ground, melting snow just a little bit. The cold weather then turns that melt into ice. As a result, the more cars that travel over the snow, the more likelihood ice will form. Another way this happens if the daytime temperatures get to a level where the snow turns to slush or melts but then freezes again as the weather turns colder when the temperature drops (such as incoming colder weather or nighttime temps).
In places used to snow, all-weather or snow tires are a must during the snowy seasons. Some places even mandate winter tires! Other devices are available to help people navigate the snow although some can be detrimental to concrete and there may be restrictions placed on used. These devices include snow chains, snow socks, studded tires, tire chains with cables, or traction mats that can be placed under tires that are slipping to help them get out of situations where the car gets stuck due to depth of snow or ice.
Fallen and accumulating snow can also make it hard to see where parking spots are (leading to hilariously bad parking), where lanes are, or even where the road is.
Deeper snow can make it difficult to get a car moving, as it will be trying to push through the snow without a lot of traction to help. Often when there’s been a big dump of snow, people get stuck at home.
When snow first hits the ground, especially in early winter or following warmish weather, it will melt on cement first. This is because the ground and cement are warmer than the snow. Once the cement and the ground beneath have had time to cool down, the snow is more likely to accumulate. What many drivers don’t take into account is that the original melt has turned into a thin sheet of ice.
Snow also causes problems for drivers as it’s falling. The most obvious example is “white out” conditions. That is when there’s enough snow in the air – be that number of flakes, size of flakes, or both – that you can’t see far. Sometimes, not even being able to see more than a few feet.
There’s also the “I need the heat on full blast, but I’ll have to open my window to not overheat” game. Snow will melt on the windshield because it’s warmer in the car than outside (there’s a pic in the gallery at the beginning of this post). If cold enough (think -20°C [-4°F] – I’m pulling that number out of my memory from about a month ago) the melt will freeze and begin to ice up the windshield. If you don’t turn heat on and direct it at the windshield, your wiper blades will wipe the moisture all over the place where it will freeze and make things infinitely worse. By you can’t turn the blades off or it’ll get infinitely worse too. So, you play the game of overheating yourself, forcing you to open the window a crack, so your windshield doesn’t freeze over and you can see outside.
Fun fact: the wiper blades will pile the partially melted snow up at the end of its sweep where it will freeze, and the pile will get larger and larger and larger, reducing the area of visibility)
Othe Snow-Related Phenomenon
SLUSH
Slush is found on the ground or other surfaces. It’s a mix of snow and water that is near the freezing point. It is the result of melting and refreezing snow.
- Wet and can be clingy
- Slippery
- Difficult to walk in
- Difficult to drive in
- Will soak through footwear that isn’t waterproof
CRUSTY SNOW
A crust of sorts can form on snow when the top layer melts and freezes. This creates a hard, brittle, and icy crust that can potentially, briefly, hold weight
- Crust is often thin
- Breaks a bit like glass, without the noise
- When strong enough to temporarily hold weight before breaking, can make walking difficult
Other Snow-Related Stuff
- Snow is insulating! That’s why when you want to survive in the mountains, you can build a shelter out of snow! Just don’t sleep directly on it. In that link above, we cover that.
- Snow is insulating…wait…this time I mean for sound. Freshly fallen snow absorbs sound waves, giving winter landscapes a quieter, more peaceful ambiance.
- On sunny days where there is snow on everything, or even just on the ground, the reflection of light coming off snow-covered surfaces can be blinding.
- Snow accumulation, if enough, can cause roofs to collapse. Especially places with flat roofs should be extra careful to get rid of snow before it gets too deep.
- Thundersnow! Snowstorms can produce lightning and thunder. It’s not common, but it can happen.
- In survival situations, eating snow is a terrible idea. One of the things that can kill you faster than dehydration is exposure to the elements. Eating snow brings down the body temperature fast, which your body will already be trying to keep up. If needing water, it’s advised to melt the snow first and warm it up lest you increase your chances of hypothermia.
Want to see a map that shows a month-to-month snow cover on the globe? Head to the NASA Earth Observatory site by clicking the link or image below. It should be considered that we’re now seeing impacts on snow cover due to climate change. Some areas that typically get snow during certain months are seeing a reduction in snow cover, whereas for the last decade (ish), places that rarely see snow or never do are seeing it.
Ice
Ice forms wherever there’s water that drops below the freezing point. This can be everything from snow melt to the pipes in your house to waterfalls! If a house is going to be unoccupied during the winter in a cold climate, it should be winterized first to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Even then, it’s not always a guarantee. Pipes in buildings or in the streets can also burst if the temperature drops too quickly, especially if the pipes are older.
Types of Ice
FRAZIL ICE
Frazil ice consists of loose, randomly oriented ice crystals that form in turbulent water. It can pose hazards to ships by reducing maneuverability and causing ice accretion on hulls.
NILAS ICE
Thin, elastic, and greasy-looking ice that forms on calm or nearly calm water. It can be easily deformed by wind and waves and is often found in the early stages of ice formation.
SHUGA ICE
A mixture of snow and ice formed from the accumulation of snow on ice floes. It can create hazardous conditions for travel, as it may conceal thin ice beneath the snow layer.
PANCAKE ICE
These are circular pieces of ice with raised edges that collide and merge to form a larger ice sheet. It often forms in areas of turbulent water with significant waves, such as in the ocean or along coastlines
BRASH ICE
Small fragments of ice that result from the breaking up of larger ice formations. It can pose navigation hazards, particularly for ships operating in ice-infested waters.
GROWLER ICE
Small, floating pieces of ice that are less than 1 meter in diameter and may be difficult to detect. Growlers pose a significant hazard to ships, as they can damage hulls and propulsion systems upon impact.
ICEBERGS
Large masses of ice that break off from glaciers or ice shelves and float freely in the ocean. Only about one-tenth of an iceberg is visible above the waterline, making them dangerous obstacles for ships.
PACK ICE
A dense aggregation of floating ice floes that cover large expanses of the ocean surface. It can vary in thickness and density, posing challenges for navigation and maritime operations.
FAST ICE
Ice that is attached or anchored to the coastline or seafloor, preventing it from drifting with ocean currents. It serves as a stable platform for wildlife and human activities such as fishing and transportation.
PRESSURE RIDGE ICE
Pressure ridge ice forms when large ice floes collide and are forced upward, creating ridges and hummocks of ice. These features can be several meters high and pose challenges for navigation, particularly for ships operating in ice-covered waters.
GLACIERS
Massive bodies of ice that form over prolonged periods through the accumulation and compaction of snow. They are often likened to “rivers of ice” though they move veeery slowly (generally). You can learn more about them over at our D-Script on how to describe mountains.
Icy Phenomenon
Black Ice
Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that forms on paved areas. It forms when moisture from rain, sleet, or melting snow freezes on cold pavement, creating a transparent or translucent layer of ice. Black Ice, like ice in general, can be dangerous. However, with black ice you rarely see it until you’re sliding. It may give off a slight glossy appearance, shimmer, or reflect light, but not necessarily.
Note, though it is called black ice, it isn’t black.
Diamond Dust
This pretty phenomenon is composed of slowly falling, tiny ice crystals. It typically occurs in clear, cold conditions when the temperature is well below freezing. The ice crystals hang suspended in the air, creating a fog-like or haze-like appearance. Despite the name, diamond dust doesn’t necessarily sparkle like diamonds, but it can create a beautiful shimmering effect in the sunlight.
The image to the left shows an example of sundogs that can appear in diamond dust.
Sun Dogs
This optical phenomenon creates bright spots of light on either side of the sun which can appear as patches of rainbow. They’re caused by refraction of sunlight passing through ice crystals in the atmosphere, typically from high-altitude cirrus clouds. They’re commonly observed when the sun is low on the horizon, such as during sunrise or sunset. Sun dogs may show up as rainbows on opposing sides of the sun, or they may form a full circle.
Freezing Rain
Freezing rain occurs when raindrops fall through a layer of cold air near the ground and freeze upon contact with objects such as trees, roads, and power lines. This rapid freezing creates a glaze of ice, known as “glaze ice” or “ice glaze,” which can accumulate on surfaces and create hazardous conditions. Freezing rain often coats surfaces with a slippery sheen, making roads and sidewalks treacherous for both pedestrians and drivers. The weight of accumulated ice can also lead to power outages and damage to trees and structures. While freezing rain can create stunning landscapes encased in ice, its beauty is often overshadowed by its potential for disruption and danger.
Frost
Frost is a thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces when water vapor in the air comes into contact with a solid surface at temperatures below freezing. It often appears as delicate, intricate patterns resembling lace, coating objects such as grass, leaves, and windows. Frost can occur in various forms, including:
- Hoar Frost: Hoar frost forms when water vapor in the air directly transforms into ice crystals on surfaces, skipping the liquid phase. It often appears as feathery or spiky crystals and is commonly found on cold, clear mornings.
- Rime Frost: Rime frost forms when supercooled water droplets in fog or clouds freeze upon contact with surfaces. It creates a thicker, more opaque layer of ice compared to hoar frost and is often found on objects exposed to freezing fog or high winds.
Frost can be relatively easy to remove from windshields or it can be VERY difficult to remove. People may choose to idle their cars to bring the heat up inside and partially melt the frost. People in areas where frost is seen often have special tools to scrape the frost. In the event they don’t, objects like bank cards help!
The first frost of the year often kills delicate plants. On the other hand, the first frost can actually improve the flavour of certain food crops such as some berries, kale, garlic, carrots, etc. The last frost of the year is also a marker for when to plant most plants in a home garden. However, that can be a bit tricky to guess at, especially with climate change shaking everything up.
Hail
Hail can range from tiny pellets to baseball-sized, but the largest one recorded was bigger than a bowling ball! Imagine that hitting anything but the ground…yeee. Small hail typically hurts, and by small I mean pea-sized. Anyhow, hail can be smooth or pointed, looking like a tiny frozen explosion, or can be round.
A few years back, we had hail so intense and large that car dealerships lost a LOT of cars. Now, many dealerships cover their stock on the lot. Getting caught in one of these major hailstorms is a bit terrifying. There was one where I had my under-10 son in the car with me. The hail got so bad I could barely see past the hood of my car. Inside, it sounded like I was in a battle. It was so loud! I was able to creep forward and get under some cover in time to avoid serious damage, but the car did have a bunch of moderately sized dents after. Believe me when I say that trying to keep a kid from freaking out while you’re expecting hail to shatter your windshield at any moment is not a situation I’d like to repeat.
Hail is associated with severe weather, including tornadoes. It is not neccessarily reliant on “cold” temperatures. Major storms can come with massive clouds where that hail forms high enough up in the atmosphere then plummets down.
Ice Fog
Ice fog is a type of fog composed of tiny ice crystals suspended in the air. It occurs in extremely cold conditions when water vapor in the air freezes directly into ice crystals without first condensing into liquid droplets. Ice fog is most common in polar regions and during periods of very cold temperatures, typically below -30°C (-22°F). It often forms in valleys and low-lying areas where cold, dense air becomes trapped and unable to mix with warmer air above. Ice fog can reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions, particularly in areas with a lot of air pollution.
Ice Needles
The ice that forms on lakes and when touched feels like shards is typically called “needle ice” or “frost needles.” Needle ice forms when water from the lake seeps upward through cracks or pores in the ice surface and freezes upon contact with the cold air above. As more water is drawn up and freezes, thin, elongated columns of ice, resembling needles or shards, develop on the surface of the existing ice layer.
These needle-like structures can range in size from a few centimeters to several inches long and may be delicate and fragile to the touch. They often appear in clusters or patches on the surface of the ice.
Icicles
Icicles are elongated, tapering formations of ice that hang from surfaces such as roofs, tree branches, and cliffs. They form when water freezes as it drips from an elevated surface, gradually building up layer by layer (like stalagmites and stalactites). Icicles can pose hazards when they fall, making them both beautiful and potentially dangerous. In cities, one might find “danger: falling ice” signs in the downtown areas where buildings are taller.
As clean and cool as these may look, don’t eat icicles. They’re often filled with dirt and debris that’s not immediately visible. For example, in the picture there, the icicles would be full of whatever was on the roof at the time of the melt.
Ice and Driving
Driving in icy conditions requires caution, patience, and preparedness to ensure safety. The first step is of course to drive slowly and carefully. Slowing down not only increases reaction time but decreases the chance of losing control of the vehicle. Funny enough, if possible and responsible, try to avoid stopping, even if the car is only moving extremely slowly (say you’re approaching a red light, slowing to a crawl well in advance). It’s harder to get started moving on icy roads than to continue along.
When driving on ice, increasing the distance between your car and the car in front is a must. You should increase it further if going down even a slight hill. It’s also a good idea to stop a little further away from the place you want to stop than you usually might. This may allow you to pull forward or into another lane if the car behind you looks like it’s not going to stop in time.
Avoiding abrupt movements is a must if you want to stay in control of your car, which includes braking slowly.
Finally, watch for black ice, leave the house with lots of extra time, and stay well back from snowplows. Snowplows will either drop gravel or ‘pickling’ on the road which will decrease the melting temp of ice, keeping it from forming. Most cities will try to get snowplows out the night before snow, but this isn’t always possible and covering large cities completely takes a lot of time. They’ll focus on busy streets and slowly work their way down to bus routes. They often do not hit side streets.
How to Stop Skidding and Spinning
Skidding and even spinning may be inevitable if you’re driving on icy roads even if you follow all the advice above. Skids are usually short but may not be. If you aim toward the snow, this will increase your chances of stopping skidding as the snow provides traction. In cars without antilock brakes, you need to pump the brakes gently, but most cars have antilock brakes nowadays. In this case, you apply steady, even pressure. It may not be possible to stop skidding if the ice is everywhere.
But what about a spin? Well, staying calm is the first step as panic stops you from thinking clearly. Next, you’ll want to steer into the spin, turning the steering wheel in the direction your back tires are spinning. Most people will try to turn against the spin to correct their course. This is not advised and increases the chance of flipping the vehicle. It’s also important not to overcorrect. Remember the advice that you don’t want to make sudden movements. So, no sharp steering and no slamming on brakes.
Finally, look where you want to go.
How to Get Moving When Stuck
First things first, any accelerating done needs to be slow. No sharp movements.
If tires are spinning without finding traction, aim toward the snowy areas, as snow provides traction. You can also try rocking the car back and forth (gas petal, release, gas petal release, or drive, reverse, drive reverse). You can use ice melt, cat litter, or other gravelly materials around your tires to provide traction to get started. Other options may be anything under the tires that could provide traction (if front wheel drive, in front of the front tires. If rear wheel drive, in front of the back tires). This could be mats, planks of woods, etc.
If there is someone else in the car, they can get out and push the back of the car while the driver tries to slowly accelerate. This may be more difficult if the ground is icy though, as they’ll slip.
If on the road and stopped at a red light, avoid getting out of the vehicle. Afterall, everyone else is having trouble as well and the car will protect you. Again, you can aim toward the snowy parts of the ground and even try turning off traction control which may complicate things in some cases.
Finally, if all else fails, calling a tow truck is the way to go. This could take a while. You’re likely not the only one stuck. For this reason, even car survival kits for the city come in handy.
Additional Tips for Icy Conditions
Keep a Safe Following Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow for increased stopping distance in slippery conditions.
Use Chains or Winter Tires: Consider using tire chains or winter tires for enhanced traction in icy conditions.
Drive in Low Gears: Use lower gears when driving on icy surfaces to reduce the risk of skidding.
Know When to Stay Put: If conditions are extremely hazardous, consider delaying your trip until the roads are safer. Staying put in severe weather is often the safest choice.
Ice on Lakes and Rivers Can Be Dangerous!
While frozen bodies of water may appear fun, they conceal hazards that pose serious risks to anyone venturing onto them. Falling into frozen lakes and rivers can be more dangerous than it seems.
There are things such as not being able to see where the break in the ice is, but also there’s the instinctive reaction we have to sudden submersion in icy water. The cold shock response can cause an immediate gasp reflex (rapid, involuntary inhalation) which increases the chances of drowning. It also increases the heart rate, blood pressure, and surges adrenaline, causing us to require more oxygen…which we can’t get because we’re underwater. Eventually, the body will force the person to breathe…but we won’t get air, just water.
Hypothermia is another major risk. This is where the body temperature begins dropping because it can’t generate heat fast enough. This causes shivering, confusion, numbness, loss of coordination, and drowsiness. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac arrest and death. The risk for hypothermia continues when the person is out of the water and proper treatment of hypothermia needs to be started as soon as possible. This involves gradually bringing the temperature of the body up. This involves removing the wet clothing and wrapping the person in dry blankets or clothing to prevent heat loss. Rewarming measures could include heat packs, warm blankets, sharing of body heat, getting near a fire, etc. It’s important to note that this needs to be done gradually. A sudden change from freezing to warm can cause the person to go into shock, which can trigger cardiac arrest (heart attack) or other problems.
But to treat hypothermia, one must be out of the water! Just getting to a person who has dropped into the water can be difficult. If the current underneath hasn’t swept the person away, they are holding onto fragile ice. It’s highly likely a rescuer will fall in as well. Rescuers should immediately call for professional help, but a few things that can be done if the situation can’t wait or there are no emergency services to respond (or lack of phone signal to contact them), would be to lay down on the ice to distribute body weight, and find something to throw that the person can hold onto – think branch attached to rope, a spare tire attached to a rope, etc. The person can then be pulled out of the ice without making the situation worse.
Thin Ice
Ice thickness can vary depending on factors such as temperature, snow cover, and water currents. Even seemingly solid ice can be dangerously thin in areas, particularly near shorelines, inlets, outlets, and areas with moving water. Walking, skating, or driving on thin ice can lead to breakthroughs and falls into icy water.
Unpredictable Conditions
Ice conditions can change rapidly, especially during periods of fluctuating temperatures or heavy snowfall. A layer of snow on top of ice can insulate it from freezing or create weak spots, making it difficult to assess ice thickness and stability. What may seem like safe ice one day may become treacherous the next, as thawing and refreezing cycles weaken the ice and compromise its integrity.
Currents and Underwater Obstacles
Moving water beneath the ice can weaken it and create thin spots or open patches known as “air holes.” These areas are particularly hazardous, as they may not be visible from the surface and can pose a drowning risk if someone falls through. Underwater obstacles such as rocks, logs, and vegetation can also weaken ice and create hazards for unsuspecting individuals traveling on or near the ice. As mentioned above, under ice currents can also sweep a person away. Staying afloat isn’t an option because the ice prevents them from doing so.
Cold Weather Skies
I wanted to touch briefly on the skies during cold weather when it comes to snow and ice. We already discussed sun dogs, diamond dust, etc. but there is one type of cloud cover I wanted to acknowledge, that is the white sky!
Though during freezing temperatures, the sky can be crystal clear or look like it does any other time of the year (at least for writing purposes) sometimes the sky becomes covered in a sheet of white cloud. It will stretch from horizon to horizon. This can cause the world to seem very monotone. The sky is white. The ground is white. Skeletal trees are white with black looking branches and trunks…It’s as equally beautiful as it is weird. Having lived around this my whole life, I still note it from time to time. The world seems desaturated.
The cloud cover can be uniform or can vary in thickness. Sometimes on these days you can’t see the sun at all, though it is bright enough outside. Other times, you might see a glowing yellow orb in the sky. A perfect, blindingly bright circle (it’s still not advised to look at it).
Cold Temperatures and the Human Body
That character of yours may be on an epic trek, facing sudden freezing weather or otherwise caught in weather that can be dangerous!
First, the basics! There’s moist cold and dry cold. The first happens when there’s high humidity levels, which is less likely on top of mountains and more likely at lower elevations. Moist cold can feel like it penetrates the body deeper, a bone-deep cold, even when the temperature isn’t very low. Whereas dry cold can happen just about anywhere depending on the amount of humidity in the air and feels crisp and sharp, drying out the skin.
Sun exposure can also change the way cold weather affects the body. If there’s snow everywhere, that snow is reflecting the sun, increasing the chances of sunburn dramatically. People venturing out should be prepared with sunglasses, sunblock, and protective clothing.
DID YOU KNOW? Being cold does not make you sick! So, why do people appear to get sick more often in the winter? During colder months, people tend to spend more time indoors in close proximity to others, increasing the likelihood of person-to-person transmission of viruses, especially since the air indoors often isn’t filtered or isn’t filtered well enough to get rid of viruses. Dry indoor air also impacts us by irritating the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Many respiratory viruses can actually survive longer in cold, dry conditions. This includes the common cold and flu viruses. Arguably, it may be easier to catch viruses during these times due to a suppression of the immune system.
Scientists Finally Figure Out Why You’re More Likely to Get Sick in Cold Weather
Now, let’s dive into some other effects on the human body.
Freezing Breath (seeing your breath): Maybe not an effect on your body, but your body affecting the environment. In cold temperatures, the air coming from the nose and mouth can basically form into little streams of clouds. The thickness of these clouds depends on how cold it is, but they dissipate quickly once in the air.
Frozen Eyelashes and Facial Hair: Moisture in the air from breathing can freeze on not only protective clothing breath passes over, but also on facial hair, including eyelashes, causing frost to form. With eyelashes, it can cause them to try to stick together or can cause mascara to run, even the waterproof stuff!
Frozen Hair: If you go out in freezing temperatures with wet hair, that hair can freeze stiff! Long hair can basically become a frozen mat.
Rosy Cheeks: To keep exposed skin warm, the body will send extra blood flow to areas that are cold. This very commonly leads to rosy cheeks in cold weather.
Runny Nose: Cold weather can cause the nose to become runny as the body produces more mucus to protect the nasal passages and warm air from the lungs causes condensation. This can result in moisture and mucus dripping from the nose. In more fun news, if not caught in time, moisture and mucus can freeze to the face or get into protective clothing like scarves and other face coverings.
Dry Nose: Alternately, lack of humidity in the air can cause the mucous membranes in the nose to dry out. This can cause a tight, uncomfortable sensation in the nose as the moisture there dries out and creates flakes of mucus. Some people will get nose bleeds during this time.
Shivering and Teeth Chattering: One of the body’s first defense mechanisms to being cold is to start shivering. This usually starts happening when the cold is getting a little more than skin deep. You may be able to control the shivering, but it will eventually become involuntary. Part of shivering includes the teeth chattering. Basically, your jaw starts shivering and starts clacking your teeth together.
Cold Hands, Toes, and Nose: Some of the first places on the body to experience uncomfortable levels of cold are the fingers, the toes, and the tip of the nose!
Snow Blindness: As mentioned before, the sun reflects off snow very easily. During the winter, all that reflection can make it hard to see, especially on a bright and sunny day! This will be increased in people with light coloured eyes. (I have both green eyes and light sensitivity known as photophobia, so winter is a tonne of fun for me!)
Cold Air Shock: It’s a common reaction when transitioning from a warm environment to a cold one, especially if the temperature difference is significant. Cold air shock can cause a momentary constriction of the airways, leading to a feeling of breathlessness or difficulty breathing. This sensation typically resolves quickly as the body adjusts to the colder temperature.
Cold-Induced Asthma: When someone experiences asthma symptoms triggered by exposure to cold air, it’s often referred to as “cold-induced asthma” or “cold air-induced asthma.” This condition is where physical activity or exposure to cold air triggers asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Cold-induced asthma can be managed with appropriate medications and preventive measures, such as using a scarf to cover the mouth and nose in cold weather or using a bronchodilator inhaler before exposure to cold air.
Cold-Induced Coughing: This type of coughing can occur in individuals with sensitive airways, such as those with asthma or bronchial hyperreactivity. Cold air can irritate the airways, leading to coughing as a protective reflex to clear the air passages. Cold-induced coughing is often temporary and resolves once the individual is no longer exposed to the cold air.
Hypothermia: This is where the body temperature begins dropping because it can’t generate heat fast enough. This causes shivering, confusion, numbness, loss of coordination, and drowsiness. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac arrest and death. Risk for hypothermia continues when the person is out of the water and proper treatment of hypothermia needs to be started as soon as possible. This involves gradually bringing the temperature of the body up. This involves removing the wet clothing and wrapping the person in dry blankets or clothing to prevent heat loss. Rewarming measures could include heat packs, warm blankets, sharing of body heat, getting near a fire, etc. It’s important to note that this needs to be done gradually. A sudden change from freezing to warm can cause the person to go into shock, which can trigger cardiac arrest (heart attack) or other problems.
Frostbite: Frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to cold temperatures. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, tingling, pain, and discoloration of the affected area, typically the extremities such as the fingers, toes, nose, and ears. Severe frostbite can cause tissue damage and permanent injury, leading to gangrene, necrosis, and the need for amputation in extreme cases.
Before frostbite occurs, individuals may experience a painful, tingling sensation known as frostnip. Frostnip is an early warning sign of frostbite and indicates that the skin is beginning to freeze. It is characterized by redness, numbness, and a burning or stinging sensation in the affected area. If not addressed promptly, frostnip can progress to frostbite. I’ve never had frostbite, but I have expereinced frostnip. It’s…disconcerting…to be freezing your butt off and suddenly have your skin burning like it’s too close to a fire!
Ideally, a person will get out of the cold before frostbite occurs. But what about after? The person should get to warmth and be treated much like hypothermia. Additional steps could be gently rewarming the affected area by immersing it in lukewarm water or using warm compresses. One should avoid rubbing or massaging the area, as this can cause further tissue damage, and elevate the affected area and cover it with dry, sterile dressings. And, of course, seek medical attention promptly.
Windburn: This is a skin condition that occurs when exposed skin is subjected to cold temperatures and windy conditions for an extended period. The cold air draws moisture away from the skin, while the wind accelerates evaporation, leading to dehydration and dryness of the skin’s outer layer. It often resembles sunburn and will typically appear within a few hours of exposure. Common symptoms include redness, irritation, dryness, and a sensation of tightness or burning on the affected skin. If severe, windburn can cause blistering, swelling, and peeling of the skin, particularly in areas exposed to prolonged wind exposure, such as the face, hands, and lips.
Animals and Cold/Snowy Weather
This one will be brief, but a lot of animals that live in cold climates have evolved to deal with it or may just leave until it warms up again (migration). Some animals, such as wild rabbits and hares, lose their brown coats and grow in thicker, multi-layered white fur. This fur often has a fluffy undercoat and longer, more coarse hairs. This helps keep them warm and helps with camouflage. Birds may fluff up their feathers, appearing more ball-like. While other animals may put on stores of fat and may hibernate (bears and squirrels, for example). Generally, the animals staying around during colder months conserve as much energy as they can by reducing movement because food is more scarce.
Snow can show the passage of animals as well as their feet leave prints in the snow. This could be bird tracks to bear tracks! Small rodents may burrow through the snow, paths that become evident when the snow caps over these paths melt.
Foods Available During Winter Months
The same energy conserving behaviours animals show can be seen historically in people who lived in cold weather environments where food sources may be more scarce during winter months. If you’re writing historically, you’ll want to consider that people would avoid big, long treks during the winter except if absolutely necessary or to hunt. Their access to the same foods we have (if they existed as many fruits and veggies have been created over time) were limited to what could be reasonably stored.
Let’s talk briefly about what foods humans would eat when food couldn’t be grown due to cold weather.
Root Vegetables: Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, turnips, and beets were harvested in the fall and stored in cool, dark cellars or root cellars. These vegetables could last for several months without spoiling, providing a reliable source of carbohydrates and nutrients during the winter.
Winter Squash: Varieties of winter squash like butternut squash, acorn squash, and pumpkins were harvested in the fall and stored in a cool, dry place. Their hard outer shells help protect them from spoilage, and they could be used in soups, stews, and roasted dishes throughout the winter.
Cabbage: Cabbage was a popular winter vegetable that could be stored for several months in a cool, humid environment. It may also be pickled for saurkraut or kimchi.
Apples: Apples were harvested in the fall and could be stored for several months in a cool, dark cellar. They were often wrapped individually in newspaper or stored in wooden crates to prevent them from spoiling too quickly. Apples could be eaten fresh or used to make applesauce, pies, and other baked goods throughout the winter.
Dried Foods: People dried various foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs to preserve them for the winter. Drying foods removes moisture, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause spoilage. Dried foods could be rehydrated and used in soups, stews, and other dishes.
Cured Meats: Meats such as bacon, ham, and sausages were cured and smoked to preserve them for long periods. Cured meats could be stored in cool, dry environments and provided a valuable source of protein during the winter months.
Grains and Legumes: Grains like wheat, barley, and oats, as well as legumes like beans and lentils, were harvested in the fall and stored in dry conditions. These staples provided essential nutrients and energy during the winter and could be used to make bread, porridge, and other hearty dishes.
Additionally…
Storing foods through methods like pickling dates back thousands of years, with evidence of pickling found in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt. Pickling was primarily done to preserve foods for longer periods, especially during times of abundance for consumption during scarcity.
The process of pickling generally involves submerging foods in a brine solution containing salt, vinegar, and various spices or herbs. The acidity of the vinegar and the salt in the brine create an environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria, preserving the food. The pickled foods are stored in airtight containers such as jars or crocks and kept in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage.
Common foods that were traditionally pickled include cucumbers (to make pickles), cabbage (to make sauerkraut), beets, onions, peppers, and various fruits.
Describe It: Cold Temperatures, Snow, and Ice
Finally, what you’re most likely here for! In this section we’ll go over how to describe much of what’s above, but definately not all of it! Make sure to check out each section for factual information on stuff you don’t see down here, or if you really want something, leave a comment below.
Remember, try to avoid large dumps of information when writing out descriptions of scenery. Remember to show, don’t tell. Try to portray it through the eyes of a character, but also give it purpose. Let’s look at that with some examples of writing below
THE INFO-DUMP
The small town of Frostwood was nestled in a valley surrounded by towering snow-covered mountains. The air was frigid, with temperatures hovering just below freezing. The sky was overcast, casting a dull gray hue over the landscape. The ground was blanketed in a thick layer of pristine snow, glistening under the weak winter sun. Icicles hung from the eaves of the buildings, shimmering in the cold breeze, and a layer of frost covered everything, giving the town an ethereal, otherworldly feel. Bare trees stood skeletal against the wintry backdrop, their branches laden with snow. Despite the bitter cold, life in Frostwood went on, with the townsfolk going about their daily routines, bundled up in layers of warm clothing to ward off the chill.
AVOIDING THE INFO-DUMP
As Jack trudged through the snow-covered streets of Frostwood, he shivered at the biting cold. His breath came out in clouds of white vapor, hanging in the air before dissipating against the brilliant blue sky. He pulled his coat tighter around him, the frosty air seeping through the fabric and chilling him to the bone.
“Can you believe how cold it is today?” Jack remarked to Sarah as she walked beside him, her cheeks flushed pink from the cold.
“Yeah, it’s freezing,” Sarah agreed. “But at least the snow makes everything look so beautiful.”
Jack nodded, glancing around at the pristine white landscape. “Small comfort when my toes are freezing off, but it is stunning today.”
He had to admit that he admired the beauty of Frostwood in the winter. The snow-covered mountains, the icy streams, the frosted trees—it was all so magical.
Sensory Words to Use
Snow
Many words under sounds are relevant to walking on snow and snowstorms. Snow, being an insulator, does dampen (muffle) sound much like sound-dampening panels in a studio.
SIGHT
- Pristine
- Glistening
- Sparkling
- Blanketing
- Drifting
- Glittering
- Soft
- Fluffy
- Powdery
- Frosty
- Crisp
- Pure
- Ethereal
- Serene
- Whiteout
- Crystalline
- Whirling
- Swirling
- Dazzling
- Luminous
- Shimmering
- Tranquil
- Delicate
- Billowing
SOUND
- Crunching
- Squeaking
- Crinkling
- Creaking
- Rustling
- Swishing
- Muffling
- Whispering
- Hushing
- Hissing
- Whistling
- Squealing
- Howling
- Whipping
- Blustering
- Roaring
- Clattering
- Rattling
- Groaning
- Moaning
- Dampened
- Muffled
- Hushed
- Silent
FEEL
- Cold
- Chilly
- Frosty
- Prickling
- Tingling
- Numbing
- Icy
- Crisp
- Stinging
- Biting
- Wet
- Damp
- Clinging
- Soft
- Powdery
- Fluffy
- Crunchy
- Slushy
- Soggy
- Squishy
Ice
Many words under sound for ice are relevant to bodies of water, not ice just sitting on the sidewalk or road. That’s often without sound. That said, sometimes the water under the frozen top layer of puddles can drain away, leaving a thin sheet of ice with a hollow underneath. It cracks and snaps when stepped on.
SIGHT
- Glistening
- Glinting
- Shimmering
- Transparent
- Crystal-clear
- Reflective
- Frozen
- Pristine
- Sparkling
- Jagged
- Sharp
- Fractured
- Slippery
- Sheen
- Crystalline
- Glacial
- Treacherous
- Glassy
SOUND
- Cracking
- Creaking
- Groaning
- Snapping
- Splintering
- Shattering
- Tinkling
- Pinging
- Rumbling
- Grating
- Squeaking
- Scratching
- Crumbling
- Thudding
- Squealing
- Screeching
- Moaning
- Popping
FEEL
- Cold
- Smooth
- Slippery
- Hard
- Sharp
- Brittle
- Glassy
- Frigid
- Numbing
- Chilling
- Jagged
- Frosty
- Crisp
- Prickling
- Stinging
Non-Specific Cold Weather
SIGHT
- Gray
- Overcast
- Hazy
- Foggy
- Misty
- Frost-covered
- Pale
- Gloomy
- Dull
- Dim
- Shadowy
- Dreary
- Bright
- Blinding
- Brisk
- Chilly
- Freezing
- Frigid
- Bitter
- Glacial
- Arctic
- Bone-chilling
FEEL
- Bracing
- Invigorating
- Refreshing
- Stiff
- Stinging
- Prickling
- Tingly
- Numbing
- Biting
- Harsh
- Uncomfortable
- Penetrating
- Piercing
- Agonizing
- Intense
- Sharp
- Severe
- Cutting
- Raw
- Piercing
Descriptive Examples
Positive Experiences
- Fergus wrapped himself in a cozy blanket as he lowered himself on to the couch, careful to balance the steaming mug of coffee in his hand. He’s always loved this time of year, the frost gathering on the window. They serene beauty of freshly fallen snow.
- Aylin led the small army of children outside, their layers of winter cloths making them toddle a little awkwardly. She’d always been a little hesitant to enter the cold, never having enjoyed the winter. The kids, however, screeched with glee and threw themselves into the crisp air and thick snow that coated the daycare’s play yard.
- Kelly nestled themself Infront of the fireplace, basking in the warmth of its glow and in the scent of burning wood. It mingled with the scent of the spiced cider in their mug. They sat blissfully for a few minutes, enjoying the quiet house before retrieving their book from the coffee table.
- The rustic cabin sat nestled among tall pines, warmed by the antique wood stove which doubled today as a place to keep the fresh bread warm. Gudrun sat in his carved chair, scanning the faces of the family who had gathered to hear the story of his recent expedition.
- It turned out to be the perfect day for a hike. Pallavi set out into the still, quiet forest as periodic gusts of wind shook the snow from the pines. Not fifty feet in, he heard the angry chattering of a squirrel, so upset at his invasion that it lobbed a pinecone at his head. Pallavi smirked. He knew this squirrel well, though the rodent didn’t share his neighbourliness.
- Alex glided across the frozen pond, the sharp blades of their skates scratching dancing paths into the surface. The crisp, cold air filled their lungs as they twirled and spun beneath the clear winter sky, thankful to put the world behind them for a few hours.
- Regina pulled her furs tighter around her shoulders before stepping out into the early morning winter. The snow crunched beneath their boots as they set out to the shed to gather more wood for the fire. Despite the chill, birds chirped in the distant forest, hunkered down in the trees outside the clearing.
Negative Experiences
- Eko moved cautiously, every step little more than a fearful scuttle across the sidewalk.
- Their cheeks burned with cold, the skin flushed and numb as the icy wind whipped against their face, freezing the moisture on their skin into a thin layer of frost.
- Shivering in the bitter cold, Shamash cursed under their breath as they scraped thick frost from their windshield. Their fingers were numb and clumsy despite their gloves, and the chill in the air felt like needles across their cheeks.
- The first few snowfalls of every winter caused traffic to come to a standstill, as though people had forgotten how to drive over the warmer months. Valentin knew this, but reliably forgot to leave early on these days, only coming to realize their mistake as they sat waiting for a hundred cars before them to move.
- It was Simona’s scream that woke Niketas. He ran downstairs to find the basement flooded, water spraying in a horizontal fan from a frosted, burst pipe.
- Eòghann trudged through the slush and snow, grimacing as icy water seeped into their shoes, soaking their feet and numbing their toes. He longed for the dry warmth of his home as he pulled the hood of his cloak back over his head, holding against the strong, steady wind that kept sweeping it off.
- Monica snuffled and coughed, slumping miserably onto the couch. Her nose was swollen and red and her throat ached so badly she dared not speak when Kamaria asked her how she was doing.
- Trapped inside by the third major snowstorm in as many weeks, Kristiina paced restlessly. She hadn’t seen the sun in what felt like ages and, reliably, her winter blues were starting to kick in.
- Walking through the frozen landscape, Marianna felt the chill seep into her bones, the icy air prickling their skin with a thousand invisible needles as she trudged forth.
- Alone in their cold, empty apartment, Gabrihel wrapped themselves in blankets, hugging their knees to the chest, their teeth chattering. The blackout couldn’t have come at a worse time. With the positively artic temperatures outside, it had taken only a few hours for the temperature in the apartment to drop uncomfortably.
- Caught in the sleet storm, they huddled together under a makeshift shelter, seeking refuge from the biting cold and relentless barrage of ice.
Dangerous Experiences
Writing a winter survival scene? Don’t forget to check out Survival Skills: Surviving in the Mountains which has a lot of cold weather survival tips, even if your character isn’t in the mountains.
- The blinding snowstorm had pushed Arushi off the trail leading through the treacherous mountain pass. She was lost, struggling to find her way to safety as the icy wind battered their face and exhaustion threatened.
- Imamu stood trapped on the frozen lake, watching in horror as cracks spiderwebbed beneath their feet. He signaled for the others to turn back moments before the thin ice gave way, sending him plummeting into the icy water.
- Shobha swore as they struggled to build a fire with fingers that were so cold they’d stopped bending properly an hour ago. Frostbite was setting in, and getting this fire going was the only thing that would save them.
- The makeshift shelter rattled in the wind, doing little to shelter Yvain from its wrath. Even the fire glowing just outside the entrance was having little effect. His supplies were dwindling. There was little more than a few strips of dried meat and hard cheese left in his pack. If the snow and cold didn’t ease up soon, this pass would claim yet another victim.
- Clenching their fists, Abdul tried to stave off the cold that threatened to consume him. Yet, his fingers continued to grow stiff and numb as the blood retreated from his extremities in a desperate bid to preserve warmth.
- They navigated the treacherous roads with caution, their hands gripping the steering wheel of their much-too-old car tightly as they braved the slick pavement and limited visibility.
- Time slowed to a hazy crawl as Marius’s car refused to break on the icy roads. Spinning uncontrollably, he hurdled toward the chaos of vehicles crumpled together on the road ahead, unable to do anything but gape in helpless horror.
- It was hardly an ideal path, but the frozen lake offered a treacherous path through the icy landscape that would cut a week off the party’s trip. But it would be riddled with hidden dangers and thin patches that would threaten to give way as they made their way across.
- Most days, Amalia didn’t mind the walk to school, but winters in this new city were far harsher than they’d been in California. The sidewalk was frosted in a thin layer of ice, and the dry cold prickled against her fingers and the front of her jean-clad legs. She tucked her bare hands into her armpits, the heavy sweater providing some warmth at least.
- The silence was more terrifying than the roaring of the avalanche that had swept Sameer off his feet. It was pure, pressing on his ears even as he called for help. The snow absorbed his cries as she struggled to dig himself out, breaths coming in ragged gasps as he clawed at the hardened snow.
- The blizzard roared across the mountain pass, engulfing the weary travelers in a swirling vortex of snow and wind, making it impossible to see more than a few feet in front of them.
- Battling against the snowstorm, they struggled to keep their footing on the icy ground, their senses overwhelmed by the relentless assault of wind and snow.
- In the middle of the storm, the hail grew larger and more menacing, threatening to shatter windows and destroy crops.
Neutral Experiences
- Delara plodded down the street, snow squeaking under her boots.
- Walking cautiously along the icy sidewalk, they watched their step, knowing that the thin layer of black ice lurking beneath the snow could send them tumbling to the ground with one wrong move.
- It didn’t take long for Sindri to melt the snow she’d collected for drinking water. When she took a sip from it, she found it to still be crisp and cold, not good if she wanted to keep her body temperature from dropping.
- Rubbing their hands together briskly, Darcy tried to warm their cold fingers.
- Outside, the world looked quiet and serene, the bright midday sun shining on the thick layer of snow that covered everything.
- Ferdous used the remote start on his car as he stood up from his desk. By the time he made it out to the parking lot, the frost on the windshield should be melted, saving him from having to spend several minutes scraping it off.
- Clouds of air funneled from Chen’s mouth as he spoke.
- The wet snow clung to their fur coats, chilling them to the bone as they trudged through the freezing landscape in search of shelter.
Describing the Environment Only
- The snow-covered plains sparkled in the sunlight, a pristine blanket of white stretching as far as the eye could see. In the distance, the river steamed, warmer than the still, cold air.
- Icy fog descended upon the city like a ghostly shroud, its tendrils wrapping around buildings and streetlights, cloaking everything in a veil of frost.
- The sudden snow squall descended upon the mountain pass, catching the group of travelers off guard as visibility plummeted and the world disappeared in a swirl of white.
- The frozen landscape lay barren and desolate, Icy wind whipped through skeletal trees and pushed the fine, powdery snow into tall snowdrifts.
- Walking beneath the overhanging cliffs, they marveled at the icicles that dripped from the rocky ledges above, their translucent forms catching the light so they sparkled.
- In the early morning, the streets were quiet. The soft glow of the streetlights cast long shadows across the freshly fallen snow.
- The forest glowed with the soft light of winter, the trees draped in shimmering icicles and the ground blanketed in a thick layer of pristine snow.
- The once raging waterfall stood silent and still, its cascade frozen in time as icicles hung suspended in midair like crystalline daggers.
- The howling winds whipped through the streets, driving snow and ice before them in a relentless onslaught.
- Downtown was dotted by plumes of warm humid air freezing into clouds above the skyscrapers. The white towers rose high before suddenly sweeping to the east as though meeting an invisible barrier.
- The valley lay silent and still, its gentle slopes blanketed in a thick layer of snow, the only sound the soft crunch of footsteps and the distant call of a lone bird braving the cold.
- The sky blazed with colour as the sun rose above the horizon, its golden rays painting the snowy landscape in hues of pink and orange.
- A ribbon of silver, the frozen river wound its way through the snow-covered valley.
- The sleet pelted against the windowpanes, its icy shards rattling against the glass like tiny daggers, creating an eerie soundtrack to the storm.
- A month into winter, the lake had frozen over. It stretched out before them like a vast expanse of glass, its icy surface shimmering in the pale light of the winter moon.
- The wet snow fell heavily, weighing down tree branches and creating a slushy mess on the sidewalks, making each step a challenge.
- The wet snow fell heavily, weighing down tree branches and creating a slushy mess on the sidewalks.
- The slush-covered streets reflected the dull glow of streetlights, creating a murky, reflective surface that mirrored the somber mood of the city.
- The snowstorm raged outside, blanketing the streets in a thick layer of snow and bringing life to a standstill.
- The air shimmered like millions of tiny crystals were floating all around her.
- Freezing rain fell from the sky like shards of ice, coating everything in its path with a glaze of shimmering crystal.
- Frost delicately coated the windows in intricate patterns, creating a beautiful tapestry of crystalline filigree that sparkled in the soft light of dawn.
Hypothermia
- Hajnal shivered uncontrollably as their body futilely attempted to generate heat as the cold worsened.
- With every passing moment, their energy waned, their movements growing sluggish and uncoordinated as hypothermia set in. They could barely think straight any longer, and they wondered if it would be best to head out into the storm despite the risks.
- The moment Todd heard the man speak, a slow, slurred rambling that barely made sense, he realized what was happening. Shrugging off his jacket, he wrapped it around the man’s shoulders before running back to the car for blankets.
- The cold wrapped around them like a suffocating blanket. Barica struggled to keep their eyes open, but it was getting harder with every minute that passed. Already he could tell his breaths were too slow, but it almost didn’t matter. Sleep called, and all he wanted was to give in to it.
Frostbite
- It started with a tingling sensation in their fingers and toes, a warning sign of the impending danger.
- The skin on her legs stung and burned despite the cold, the flesh turning mottled.
- The tips of Gerald’s fingers were pale and waxy, another he felt little in them. They had long since turned numb and lifeless as the cold overcame him.
- With each passing minute, the pain intensified. It was a searing agony that radiated through Marcin’s frozen limbs as the tissues began to freeze and die, leaving behind nothing but blackened, necrotic flesh in its wake.
- Character Voice: How to Make Sure Characters Don’t All Sound the Same
- Describe It: Writing a Character Who Stutters
- Describe It: Cold Weather, Snow, and Ice
- Describe It: The Basics of a Fight
- What We Wear: On Our Torsos – Bras
- Survival Skills: Surviving in the Mountains
- Locations: Mountain Biomes Including Valleys, Caves, and Other Features
- Describe It: Numbness to Dissociation
SITE BROUGHT TO YOU BY
SHONNA WHITE
Artist, Writer, Gamer, and GIANT GEEK
descriptionary.wordpress.com 