Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 12/12/2011 - 07:24
Forums
Human Impacts in Antarctica 2011

Dear Ms. Brown and the team,
I have a question for you. Everybody knows the weather in the Artic is extreme as far as cold goes. My question is: Do you think you came prepared for the weather? Also Iwas wandering what is the most bulky piece of gear you have ot wear?

From Emily B

Mon, 12/12/2011 - 13:19

Michelle Brown

Hello Emily,I do think I have the right clothing for these conditions. In fact, the Antarctic is even colder than the Arctic! The coldest temperature in the world was recorded in Vostok, Antarctica at -150 degrees if my memory serves me correct! Although I'm not prepared for those kind of conditions, I am prepared for the weather at McMurdo and the South Pole in their summer. This is especially because I visited the Clothing Distribution Center in New Zealand before leaving. They provided me with many of the layers that I depend upon when I'm especially cold. I also was given clothing from Patagonia that has been useful, including some great fleece and down layers!
The bulkiest piece of clothing I have is without question, the Big Red Jacket I wear. I only wear it when the wind or temperatures are especially cold because it is so bulky. It has 12 pockets in it! This is great when you need to hold a lot of things, but it can get confusing as to where all your items are! I can even fit a 1 liter water bottle in it!
Thanks for a great question!
Sincerely,
Ms. Brown