Switzerland’s -37°C Freeze Reveals Why Some Feel the Cold More Than Others
Switzerland is experiencing freezing conditions, with temperatures dropping to -37.1°C in Hintergräppelen alp, Toggenburg SG. The extreme cold has brought attention to how the human body reacts to low temperatures—and why some people feel it more than others.
When the outside temperature drops below 15°C, the body works to maintain its core temperature of around 37°C. Blood vessels in the skin tighten, redirecting blood flow toward vital organs. This natural response can leave extremities, like hands and feet, feeling colder.
Shivering and goosebumps are the body’s way of fighting back. Shivering generates heat through muscle contractions, while goosebumps occur when tiny muscles in body hair contract. However, tiredness can weaken this regulation, slowing metabolism and making people feel even colder. Women generally feel the cold more intensely than men. Hormones like estrogen thicken the blood, reducing circulation in the extremities. Their skin temperature is about 3°C lower, and they prefer indoor temperatures roughly 2.5°C warmer. Thinner skin and less muscle mass also mean women retain less heat. Body fat plays a role too—people with higher percentages stay warmer, as fat acts as insulation. Regular cold exposure, like cold showers, can train the body to tolerate lower temperatures better. Exercise helps generate warmth, but retaining that heat requires proper clothing, such as layers, scarves, and blankets. Keeping the torso, thighs, and neck warm is key, as these areas lose heat quickly. Warm socks help, but they won’t fully prevent cold feet if blood flow to the extremities is restricted.
As Switzerland endures sub-zero temperatures, understanding the body’s reactions can help people stay warm. From hormonal differences to the role of body fat, small adjustments—like dressing in layers and staying active—can make a big difference in combating the cold. Proper insulation and awareness of individual sensitivities remain the best defences against freezing conditions.
