As we prepare for the extreme cold weather hitting West Texas this weekend, it’s important to go over some common myths that mothers and school children alike have spread for years.
Keep scrolling to see the full list of winter myths that all Texans must know. 👇
As I mentioned before, Lubbock is set to get hit with some nasty temps and potentially some dangerous icy rain this weekend. This is why it’s important to know some commonly misunderstood facts about cold weather brought to you by the Old Farmer’s Almanac. So, let’s set some records straight starting with catching colds.
Are Common Colds Really from Cold Temperature?
I can’t tell you how often I heard, while growing up, “close the window, you’ll catch a cold!”
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Obviously, growing up in Wisconsin, this was a tad more common than in Texas, but the point remains the same. Catching a cold, despite the irony, has nothing to do with cold weather. The common cold is a virus spread through the spit and breath of infected people, not through chilly weather.
The reason why people get sick often during the winter months is that, as temps fall, people tend to stay indoors and in close quarters, allowing viruses to spread more easily.
Can’t Stop Shivering? Drink Coffee or Some Whiskey!
Here’s another myth that may upset some folks. Drinking alcohol or caffeine of any kind can actually speed up your body’s heat loss. That’s right, caffeine constricts your blood vessels, preventing steady flow to your hands and feet, and alcohol can reduce shivering.
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We often compare shivering to other negative side effects of being cold, but it’s actually your body’s natural response to staying warm. By forcing rapid muscle contractions (AKA shivering), you can actually triple your body’s heat production, according to the Almanac.
So, as we get ready to brave the winter weather, let’s not forget these common myths that Texans, young and old, often misunderstand. Keep scrolling to see the full list of winter myths!
10 Cold Weather Myths All Texas Citizens Need to KnowWhether they’re told to us from friends at school or from our parents, there are many rumors about cold weather out there. Let’s go through 10 of the most common myths, according to the Old Farmer’s Alamanac.
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