Single-digit wind chill in Colorado Springs prompts frostbite concerns

The snow has come and it’s here to stay for at least one more day as temperatures hit the single digits with the wind chill in Colorado Springs.

As people tried to get to work Monday, the snow and cold definitely played a factor.

“I had to jump-start the truck this morning even though it was plugged in all night,” said local resident Chris Atkins.

Icy roads made it difficult for drivers, and some roads were even closed, but it was the cold air that people were complaining about.

George Gonzalez said, “Just trying to put on as many layers as you can to protect from it.”

Anthony Fuentez added, “I’m lucky, I don’t have to work outside but you know I commute all day long so I’ll have to drive in this.”

With a windchill in the single digits, It only takes 30 minutes to get frostbite. Dr. Ian Tullberg, Medical Director at UCHealth says it’s important to bundle up.

“Even if you’re wearing what you normally think is warm clothes you can still get frostbite through boots, frostbite through clothes. Just completely depending on the timeframe you are out there,” said Tullberg.

The big thing Is according to Tullberg, is paying attention to the symptoms.

Tullberg, “If you start getting some numbness, some tingling, your ears are turning a little bit red your nose is turning red, that’s starting to turn into some frostnip. You want to be very careful and get yourself inside right away.”

As for frostbite cases this year there haven’t been any yet, but Tullberg believes he will see a couple within the next few days.