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Standing Outside in a Blizzard

By Sarah Schwabe

Like many people in TV, I wear multiple hats. Every Friday and Saturday I forecast the weather, which I really enjoy doing. Other days I am a general assignment reporter. Every now and then I get to combine the two, and report on the weather! Usually when this happens, it involves me standing outside in a blizzard.

Well, that's exactly what happened last Thursday when a winter storm moved into Southern Colorado. I was sent out east of Colorado Springs to Peyton to cover conditions out there. Keep in mind, Highway 24 had just closed down from Calhan out to Limon because of poor visibility and blowing snow.

Heading out on Highway 24, things went from okay to bad fast. The big problem- the wind! It was whipping around, blowing snow everywhere. I had a live report for the noon newscast, and really wanted to show just how strong the winds were. So I started the report right next to the live truck, which was blocking the wind. Then, I gradually moved back until the winds were hitting me full on. Needless to say, it was cold. The biting wind just about took my breath away, and snow was blowing directly into my face. I managed to get some words out, and finish the report without being blown over. I immediately ran back to the truck, jumped in and wiped off the layer of melting snow on my face.

I did that a few more times that day before I got to go home. Even though I just about froze, it was a fun. It's always a good day when you can combine two of your interests, and get paid for it!