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The Weather Channel

Understanding wind chill: Why wind makes cold feel ‘colder’

The Weather Channel · Just In
The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel
Just In

Ever wondered why windy and cold conditions can feel much colder than the actual temperature? The answer lies in the effects wind has on our body’s natural processes. Here’s the science.

Breakdown
  • Wind chill makes cold feel worse than the actual temperature.
  • The body radiates heat, forming a warm insulating air layer. 8s
  • Wind blows away this warm layer, increasing heat loss. 23s
  • Wind chill is especially dangerous for exposed skin. 38s