2 weeks Ago By John Wheeler
FARGO — Aside from rather subtle effects of temperature and pressure, water freezes and ice melts either side of 32 degrees. However, the way our bodies (and minds) react to chilly weather is not nearly so consistent. A cloudy afternoon in the 50s in October feels chilly, but the same conditions in March will have us rejoicing in the warmth.
The difference is human physiology. Thermoreceptors in our skin send messages to the brain and, after repeated exposure to cold, the brain will react by causing blood vessels in our extremities to constrict. Less blood flow means less cooling of the skin.
In short, we get used to the cold. There is even research to suggest that people who spend a lot of time outside in the winter become more cold-tolerant than people who stay inside. However, it should be noted that cold weather tolerance does not make one impervious to hypothermia and frostbite.
Water still freezes at 32 degrees..
