Students walk in winter clothing on Tuesday, January 25, 2021 at Lowry Mall in Columbia, Mo.
On Feb. 2, a groundhog named Phil told us that we, allegedly, will have six more weeks of winter. Although the thought of walking to classes in cold temperatures is not the most appealing, there are ways you can prepare for the weather — not only through the winter season, but also the rest of spring semester.
No matter the time of year, the most important way you can prepare to weather the elements of Missouri is by referring to the daily forecast in any form. You can download an app on your phone or watch local news stations in the morning. If you want to hear the weather from a fellow student, learn random facts and get daily quotes, follow sophomore Andrew Labit, “The Mizzou Weatherman,” on TikTok or Instagram @mizzouweatherman. Maybe technology is not your style when it comes to weather — in that case, at least look out the window for clouds and step outside to feel the temperature.
The next couple weeks you will have to deal with colder temperatures, so here are some ways to avoid getting frostbite when commuting across campus. You cannot take gloves, hats and scarves for granted. These can be lifesavers in the freezing climate. If you want to be extra fancy, you can even buy hand and toe warmers. Next, put away the sandals and Crocs for a little while longer, and instead go for thick socks and boots. Layering will be your best friend, so invest in some long sleeves, turtlenecks and a good winter coat. Remember that it will sometimes feel significantly colder than what the temperature reads, and if it is a windy day you will want to bundle up even more.
When it comes to layers and extra sources of warmth, remember the George Ellis quote, “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
As the weeks pass, it will be common for it to be cold in the morning and then become warmer as the day goes on. In these cases, wear layers that are lighter; preferably ones you can easily store away in your backpack or tie around your waist so you don’t have to lug a winter jacket around all day.
With warmer weather comes the dreaded Midwestern spring storms and downpours. Now would be the appropriate time to pull out those previously mentioned Crocs. A raincoat is a great investment, but more importantly, you need to bring an umbrella if rain is in the forecast. If you don’t own one already, a small collapsible umbrella will be a necessity later in the year. These can be bought at most department stores and even online. Without proper rain gear, your backpack — containing valuable electronics and textbooks — may succumb to water damage.
On the unfortunate chance you get caught in a rainstorm without your trusty water repellent, you can politely make a new friend to share an umbrella with if they are willing. Although focusing on staying dry during the thunderstorm season is important, do not forget to be safe. If the weather gets severe, find a building to take shelter in for a while until the storm passes or weakens.
Freezing or humid, snow or sunshine, the spring semester can be unpredictable when it comes to the weather. If you are not from the Midwest, getting used to the weather will be a learning curve. Be prepared for anything nature throws your way by checking the forecast ahead of time, wearing temperature-appropriate clothing and staying alert for extreme conditions. As long as you are conscious of the weather, you will be prepared for anything Missouri has in store this semester.
Edited by Ever Cole, ecole@themaneater.com