Whiteout (weather)

A whiteout is a severe weather condition in which the visibility and contrast are severely reduced by snow and often overcast skies. A true whiteout is characterized by the absence of a visible horizon. No shadows are discernible, and the sense of orientation is virtually lost. This occurs because the sky, snow-covered ground, and surrounding landscape all appear uniformly white, blending together.

Whiteouts can be caused by falling snow, blowing snow, or a combination of both. The intensity of the snowfall, the wind speed, and the reflectivity of the snow surface all contribute to the severity of the whiteout.

There are two main types of whiteouts:

• Falling Snow Whiteout: This occurs when heavy snowfall obscures visibility and eliminates visual references.

• Blowing Snow Whiteout: This occurs when strong winds pick up snow from the ground and redistribute it, creating a swirling cloud of snow that obscures visibility. This type of whiteout can occur even when there is no new snowfall.

Whiteout conditions can be extremely dangerous, especially for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. They can lead to disorientation, difficulty navigating, and increased risk of accidents. Safety precautions during whiteout conditions include:

• Staying indoors or seeking shelter.
• If traveling, slowing down and using extreme caution.
• Using navigational tools, such as a GPS or compass, if possible.
• Being aware of the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite.
• If caught in a whiteout while hiking or skiing, digging a snow cave for shelter can provide protection from the elements.

Whiteouts are most common in polar regions, mountainous areas, and open plains with extensive snow cover, such as the Arctic, Antarctica, and the Rocky Mountains.