Why is it that the part of the news we pay the most attention to is the weather? The reporters may be reporting the apocalypse, but all we’re really concerned with is whether or not it’s going to rain tomorrow. It’s understandable. Weather has a huge effect on our quality of life. When we move to an area with a major climate change, it effects everything from our moods, to our activities, to the clothes we wear to our level of comfort. Of course, we’re concerned with the forecast.
Major climate change may not only mean a few wardrobe changes, it can also have an impact on your health, your budget, and your daily routines. Here are some things you can do to prepare for that impact.
Moving: Major Cold to Hot Climate Change
Of all the climate change moves, cold to hot is probably the most popular move. Anyone who has been stuck in more than three feet of snow at some point in their lives will tell you how attractive a warm climate can appear. However, there are some things that you need to take into consideration before you hire professional packers and movers, and trade in your ski gear for the surf.
- Your Energy Bill Will Increase
As the temperature rises, so does your summer energy bill. In places where the temperature may exceed 90 degrees, a home with no air conditioning can not only be uncomfortable, but also dangerous. Extremely hot temperatures can cause heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
In order to keep your bill as low as possible, consider switching to an energy efficient air conditioning unit or running the fan instead of the AC. Insulated homes lose less cool air as well as hot air. Make sure your home is well protected to make the most out of that delightful AC air.
- You May Have to Shift Your Schedule
When you move to a hot climate, the hours between 3:00 to 4:30 mark the most dreaded time of day. These are the hours in which the sun is highest, hottest and most intense. If you were used to the warmth of the sun to get you through your afternoon activities in your old town, you might want to become more of morning or evening person in your new one. Save the strenuous tasks for a more comfortable time of day. You’ll be able to accomplish more without overheating.
Moving: Major Hot to Cold Climate Change
If you’re moving from the heat to the cold, you’ll have to grow thick skin, but until that happens, you’re going to have to compensate with clothes. Here are a few things you may want to keep in mind for thickening up with clothes.
- Get Your Cold Weather Gear After You Move
Not only will it be hard to determine the right kind of gear you’ll need before you actually get to your new location, you’re not likely to find the right kind of gear in your old location. If you live in a warm climate like Florida, stores won’t be selling too many down jackets. Make your purchases when you get to your new home. You’ll find more of the things you need at lower prices.
- Layering
In your old town, layering might have been fashionable, but in a cold climate, it’s functional as well. Several layers are more effective than one warm single layer because layers stay closer to your body and keep heat in.
Bonus tip For Layering: Start with a base layer, like thermal underwear. Top with insulating layer, such as a sweater or sweatshirt. Complete with a shell layer. We recommend a down jacket that goes below your knees to maintain maximum coverage and keep moisture out.
Moving: Major Dry to Humid Climate Change
Humidity may not be related to heat, but combined with heat, it can be overbearing. High levels of humidity have been known to worsen allergies and respiratory conditions, not to mention, it wreaks havoc on your hair and skin. The secret to surviving high humidity is to keep well ventilated. Here are some ways to do just that.
- Keep Windows Closed
Although it may seem counterintuitive, the best practice for humid areas is to keep the windows shut. Opening them will only let in more humid air and increase the likelihood of mold and mildew. Instead of letting the bad air in, use indoor fans to encourage circulation. Stagnant air can feel suffocating, especially in the hot weather.
- Use A Dehumidifier
What do you do to keep humidity out of the air? You use a dehumidifier of course! It may sound like a one liner but using a dehumidifier can make a serious difference in improving the air quality in your house. If you’re moving from a dry to a humid climate, put a dehumidifier at the top of your shopping list. It will not only improve your personal comfort, but also your personal health and well-being.
Moving: Major Humid to Dry Climate Change
When you notice your skin clearing up and your hair calming down, it’s a sign you have moved to a dry climate. While at first these seem like welcome changes, there are some downsides to low humidity. Lack of moisture can lead to skin irritation, nose bleeds, dehydration and immune system compromise. Here are some tips for reaping the benefits of dry air without suffering the consequences.
- Use A Humidifier
If you’re moving from a humid climate to a dry one, you’re especially vulnerable to the ravages of dry air. Humidifiers can help to ease the transition. By locking moisture into the air, humidifiers soothe dryness and irritation that can lead to the nose bleeds, skin conditions, and general discomfort that your body may not be prepared for.
- Moisturize Frequently
When the dry air hits, the moisture can get sucked out of your skin faster than you can say, “Calgon Take Me Away.” The best way to fight dry skin is with a good moisturizer. Experts advise using moisturizer every time after you wash your hands.
Pro tip: Use creams in the dry weather, lotions are better in humid climates.
Reliable Climates vs. Drastically Changing Climates
In southern California, meteorologists have it easy. They always have good news to report and little chance of error. In Rapid City, South Dakota, snowstorms can come without warning. There are thunderstorms in the summer about once every four days. Temperature can change up to 15 degrees overnight. It’s safe to say, the weathermen in Rapid City are probably not the most popular people.
Moving from a predictable climate to an unpredictable climate may take a little while to get used to, but as long as you expect the unexpected, you should be fine. Here are some tips for moving from a reliable climate to a less reliable one.
- Stock Up
Remember when mother said, “Preparation is the key to success?” When the weather is unpredictable, mother’s words are always reliable. Make sure your house has a good AC and heating systems and good insulation to keep weatherproofed against extreme temperature situations. Insulation will keep in the warm air when it’s cold and the cool air when its warm.
Additionally, stock up on weather related items. That means everything from umbrellas to snow gear to bug repellant. Word to the wise: Do this after you move, as you’re more likely to find the right items in the cities where they are most needed.
- Keep Updated on the Weather.
Chances are you won’t beat your local weather people for accuracy, but there are several weather apps on the market that are giving them a run for the money. Check out apps like the Weather Channel that provide ten-day forecasts and Doppler images to keep you updated on the latest changes in the weather, especially when you’re on the move.
Another tip: Stay in touch with social media. Consider signing up for updates from weather notification services for up to the minute weather reports and alerts. Most importantly stay in touch with friends and neighbors. They may be the most valuable resource you have.
