Low temperatures, especially combined with strong winds, can lead to frost nip, chilblains, frostbite and hypothermia. Frost nip is a relatively minor reaction to the cold. It happens when ice crystals form under the skin. It is usually not painful and is easy to treat. Chilblains occur when bare skin is exposed to cold water or when wet skin cools over time.
Victims often get lesions on their hands and feet.
Several days after treatment, affected areas may be intensely painful. They may swell, turn red, blister or hemorrhage. Gangrene is a possibility, and the victim may develop a long-term sensitivity to cold. Frostbite happens when soft tissue freezes. It is a particular danger on days with a high wind-chill factor.