6 Tips to Surviving the Infamous Rochester Snow!

One of the most well known facts about Rochester is that we get an insane amount of snow. There are definitely horror stories like how we got over 24 inches of snow in one weekend or how one of the highways was completely shut down because of dangerous road conditions. However, the snowfalls are definitely manageable (and can be enjoyable?) if you keep in mind these six simple tips. Don’t you worry!

It’s always better to overdress.
Make sure to bundle up whenever you are traveling outside. Sweaters, scarves, gloves, hats, and fuzzy socks are a must as the cold weather can be fierce. It’s better to not need that extra pair of mittens you brought rather than to have your hands freeze because you forgot them. Dress in layers! Even at 50°F, you are in danger of losing core and extremity heat, so make sure to stay warm. Also, try not to expose your skin to the cold; even if it isn’t snowing, the biting wind can lead to quick body heat loss.

Keep an eye out for black ice.
Although the University of Rochester not only plows the snow early in the morning but also sprinkles salt on the ground for students to safely walk to their classes, there can still be black ice. Whenever possible, take advantage of our blessed tunnel system, which allows students to safely and warmly walk between academic buildings. However, if you do slip on black ice, try to fall backwards rather than forward to prevent any damage.

Stay hydrated!
This may not seem like a big concern, but severe cold can be just as dangerous as severe heat, especially if you aren’t sufficiently hydrated. Staying hydrated is also a natural way you can prevent getting sick. On a related note, avoid sweating as you would not only lose more moisture, but water on your skin can quickly make you colder.

Keep moving.
Keeping active is another way you can keep your body a bit warmer. Try to walk around campus, go on an afternoon jog, or make a visit to the athletic center. Staying active is also another way to stay healthy. Did you know: shivering is a natural way your body adapts to the cold, so keep shivering and keep moving.

Make your time indoors fun.
Done with all your homework or just want to take a study break? Although the snowstorms and freezing weather mean you may have to stick to staying indoors for a while, don’t fret because there are still loads to do. Enjoy sweets and a nice warm cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or tea from Starbucks, Peets, or the dining halls. Our libraries are also filled with a myriad of books: take a moment to peruse through the vast selection and choose a book or two to read. If reading is not your idea of fun, snow days always bring more time for you to binge watch your favorite show on Netflix. A selection of movies and TV shows are also offered at the Arts and Music Library. Gather your friends to watch movies or to simply chat away the night together while you’re snowed in.

Tap into your inner child and jump in the snow!
Build a snowman or have a snowball fight! Sled down the hill behind the Susan B. Anthony housing building or simply lie in the snow to observe the snowflakes peacefully falling from the sky. To all you lovers of snow, take advantage of the snowy weather!

Keeping these tips in mind, I hope everyone has a warm, safe, and fun winter season!