How to Stay Warm This Winter

How to Prepare for the Weather

Any long-time resident of Northwest Arkansas knows how sporadic the weather can be down here. From a raging snowstorm one day to shorts and Chacos heat the next, one can never know what to expect. One thing is for certain, though: temperatures are about to drop. As summer comes to a close and winter steadily approaches, the time to prepare for the snow and ice is now.

As a newcomer to Northwest Arkansas, I was not prepared for the icy weather that hit campus last winter. Growing up in South Arkansas, snow was a rarity. Most of my Christmases were green, and I almost always could go outside in a T-shirt. So, when the winter season came upon us, I was ill-prepared and, quite frankly, very cold. Now that I have a year under my belt as a student at John Brown University, I have created a list of necessities to help students who are not accustomed to icy temperatures stay warm and be safe.

• A Warm Coat: This may seem obvious, but a warm coat is an essential item of clothing to have in the winter. Pairing one with a thick sweater equates for a toasty shield from icy temperatures. If a coat was not on your packing list, do not fret! Thrift stores such as Potter’s House, Goodwill, and Cheap Thrills sell many fashionable coats for a low price, perfect for college students on a budget.

• Thick Shoes and Socks: Without quality footwear, snow can seep into your shoes, creating an uncomfortable and chilly walk for the rest of the day. Also, when sidewalks ice over, having shoes with good grip can save you from injury—especially when walking down Hutch Hill.

• An Ice Scraper: While it is safer not to drive during icy weather, sometimes a Wal-Mart run might be essential. However, icy windshields can obscure your vision—a recipe for disaster. It is always convenient to have an ice scraper tucked away inside your vehicle. Five minutes of scraping, and you are on the road!

• Face Mask: Due to the pandemic, everyone on campus has a face mask on hand. While primarily used to protect others and yourself from contracting COVID-19, a mask can also be used to keep your face warm when walking outside, which can help prevent a runny nose and piercing winds.

• Friends: A great way to have an exciting and safe winter during snowy weather is to have a great community of friends to spend time with. Huddling in groups when standing outside is an excellent method of staying warm physically, but it is also good for the mind and soul.

While winter can be dangerous, it can also be a season of excitement! Make snowmen with your classmates, go sledding behind the admissions building, or enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate from Ground Floor Coffee. Enjoy the heat while it lasts and begin prepping for a safe and warm winter!