On March 11, the Lehigh County coroner confirmed that six people in the county died this winter while performing snow removal, including shoveling driveways and clearing sidewalks. The deaths, which expanded earlier counts tied to a late January storm, were linked to sudden medical emergencies that hit during or shortly after strenuous cleanup. Coroner Dan Buglio said the cases highlight particular danger for older adults and people with underlying cardiac conditions.
According to 6abc, Buglio said the six deaths were caused by snow shoveling and other demanding winter cleanup after major storms this season. The coroner's office did not identify the victims in its release. CBS Philadelphia previously reported that county officials initially knew of three such deaths before the total was updated to six.
Initial coverage after the January 25 storm documented three deaths in Lehigh County, with victims ranging in age from 60 to 84 years old, local reporting noted. CBS Philadelphia said investigators ruled those deaths natural and consistent with cardiac events that can follow strenuous activity like shoveling. Officials urged neighbors and family members to check on older adults and those with medical vulnerabilities during cleanup.
Why snow removal strains the heart
Medical experts say the combination of cold air and intense exertion puts extra pressure on the heart. Guidance notes that shoveling relies heavily on the arms, rapidly raises blood pressure, and can push heart rates to levels comparable with intense exercise, especially for people who are sedentary or already have cardiovascular disease. According to the American Heart Association, people with heart conditions should avoid manual snow removal and learn the warning signs of cardiac trouble.
How to reduce your risk
County and health officials urge residents who are older or who have heart disease to get help with deep snow: ask a neighbor, hire a plow, or use a snow clearing service. If you have to clear snow yourself, warm up first, lift smaller scoops, push snow instead of lifting when you can, take frequent breaks, and stop immediately if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or palpitations. Municipal public works departments and volunteer groups can often connect residents with assistance, so it is worth checking town websites for resources before taking on a heavy cleanup.
Buglio said the incidents serve as a serious reminder about the dangers of snow removal for people with underlying health conditions and extended condolences to affected families, according to 6abc. The coroner's office did not release names and directed inquiries to its press office for more information.
