Enter the temperature and wind speed into the calculator to determine the frostbite severity score. This calculator can also evaluate any of the variables given the others are known.
Frostbite Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the severity of frostbite based on temperature and wind speed.
FS = (35 - T) + (10 * sqrt(V)
Variables:
- FS is the frostbite severity score
- T is the temperature in degrees Celsius
- V is the wind speed in km/h sqrt is the square root function
To calculate the frostbite severity score, subtract the temperature from 35. Then, take the square root of the wind speed and multiply it by 10. Add these two results together to get the frostbite severity score. The higher the score, the more severe the frostbite risk.
What is a Frostbite?
Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues, primarily affecting the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin due to exposure to cold temperatures. It begins with a cold and prickly feeling, followed by numbness and changes in skin color, ranging from white or yellowish to a later purplish or black. Severe cases can lead to permanent damage or amputation. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if frostbite is suspected.
How to Calculate Frostbite?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Frostbite Severity Score (FS) using the given formula:
- First, determine the temperature in degrees Celsius (T).
- Next, determine the wind speed in km/h (V).
- Next, calculate the square root of the wind speed (sqrt(V)).
- Next, subtract the temperature from 35 (35 – T).
- Next, multiply the result from step 4 by 10 (10 * (35 – T)).
- Finally, add the results from step 3 and step 5 to calculate the Frostbite Severity Score (FS).
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:
Temperature (T) = -10 degrees Celsius
Wind speed (V) = 20 km/h
sqrt – Square root function
