When can frostbite occur?

Frostbite can occur when temperatures drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) or lower, especially when combined with wind, moisture, and exposure time. At this temperature, skin and underlying tissues can begin to freeze, potentially leading to more severe injuries if exposure continues.

While it's true that frostbite is more likely to happen at lower temperatures, the threshold for frostbite onset is indeed right at the freezing point. Factors such as wind chill can exacerbate the risk. Therefore, understanding that frostbite can start at 32 degrees helps in recognizing the importance of taking precautions in cool environments, even if it doesn't feel extremely cold.

This awareness is crucial for outdoor activities or deployments in cold weather, as individuals are often at risk without realizing it, especially in conditions with wind and moisture that can lower the effective temperature felt on the skin.