Colder than Mars

I am certain there are many places colder than Mars. But one in particular that peaks my interest is my home, in the prairies. Canada is insanely cold this time of year! Which came as a bit of a shock to me during my visit to Alaska some years ago. I had intended to hear stories of climates that were even colder, but to my chagrine. It doesn't really get much colder than this anywhere on the face of our planet.

There's really no reason for anyone to commit themselves to living in a place like this. We must be crazy. Mad even. But there is a certain dark witticism to living in one of the coldest places on Earth for 8 months of the year. We have a steep rise of a hundred degrees through the summer months. And it sorts out alot of the weak and meager individuals. Or...was that the intelligent ones that leave? I don't know. But one thing I know, is that we still see the sun and sap that wonderful vitamin D through the eyes of our balaclavas.

So yes, this past Tuesday we officially announced that the capital of Manitoba 'Winnipeg' was colder than the surface of Mars. by 3pm in the afternoon there were reports of an air temperature of -31 which really isn't that bad by our standards. But then Mars was a mere -29 at the time, as reported by the Mars Rover. But when you take into account the windchill factor that was seen in Winnipeg, we were feeling gusts as cold as -50 which will rip the flesh right off your bones. So, extreme caution is always advised. Health warnings are issued. And advisories suggest that noone leaves their house unless its necessary. Some of us just go out as though it was any other day. Because we grew up here. We live here. And we know how to dress appropriately.

Some things to keep in mind are always to layer up properly. Cover yourself with wool, thermal layers of cotton or other space fabrics that were designed for conditions on Mars. Coincidentally enough, it is highly advised to wear fur to surround areas that are not able to be covered. Like your face, or hands. Fur has a natural tendency to form a barrier or safety zone which is known to shed the extreme gusts of wind, and provide its own bubble of warmth.

Stay warm!