The Challenges of Shoveling Snow: When Does It Become Exhausting?

I live in Alabama, a place where snow isn't considered a major effort. However, it does occur and when it sticks around, it becomes a significant challenge. During the fall of snow, it often starts as a light and fluffy substance, but soon transforms into ice due to overnight freezing. This article explores the physical exertion involved in shoveling snow, the varying types of snow, and the reasons why it becomes increasingly taxing with each passing day.

Varieties of Snow and Their Behavior

Snow isn's just snow. It can vary widely in consistency, depending on temperature and atmospheric conditions. Between 32°F and 0°F, water as ice can form 46 different crystal structures. This variability means that snow can be soft, fluffy, or icy, each requiring different shoveling techniques and levels of physical effort.

Experiences of Shoveling Different Types of Snow

A notable instance of shoveling snow in Alabama involved a high-speed wind and 6 inches of fluffy snow at nearly 0°F. This created a light, drifting powder that was virtually impossible to manage, especially with a shovel. Despite the challenges, the snow lingered for a week, made worse by its tendency to harden and accumulate into an impenetrable mess. Contrastingly, a night with soft, wet snow and nearly 32°F made for much easier shoveling, as the snow fell and crumbled like cake.

Physical Strain and Timing: Why Prompt Shoveling Matters

An equally important aspect of snow shoveling is the physical demand it places on the body. Snow can become quite heavy, particularly when wet, weighing approximately one-quarter the volume of water. While not everyone encounters this challenge, those who do often find it demanding, especially those without regular physical activity. Fit individuals still face significant exertion, but the unprepared or those with physical limitations may find it a considerable challenge.

The timing of snow shoveling is crucial, as snow left overnight will harden and become increasingly difficult to remove. Cars, in particular, are essential to keep clear, to avoid delays in travel and potential ice-related accidents. The initial cleanup of the car and clearing the driveway offer the opportunity to get the harder work out of the way, making it easier and safer for the remainder of the storm to pass.

Conclusion

Shoveling snow, while seemingly simple, involves significant physical exertion depending on the type of snow and when it is removed. In cold regions, where snow is a regular occurrence, proper preparation and timing are essential to avoid the physical strain and hazards associated with unmanaged snow. Whether it's a fluffy, powdery snow or a dense, icy accumulation, persistent snowfall requires a strategic approach to reduce the physical toll it takes on the human body.