Winter’s icy grip is causing unexpected challenges for those tasked with the solemn duty of laying the departed to rest.
At a Glance
- Severe winter weather is making grave digging increasingly difficult across the United States
- Frozen ground requires specialized equipment and extended time for burial preparations
- The situation is compounded by higher mortality rates during winter months
- Innovative solutions like ground thawing blankets are being employed to address the issue
- Winter weather alerts are affecting multiple states, further complicating cemetery operations
The Frozen Earth’s Challenge
As winter tightens its grip on the United States, an often-overlooked consequence of the bitter cold is emerging: the increased difficulty of grave digging. Cemeteries across the nation are grappling with frozen ground, which is significantly impeding their ability to provide timely burial services. This challenge is particularly acute in regions where freezing temperatures dominate, turning what is already a somber task into a physically demanding and time-consuming ordeal.
The frozen earth not only prolongs the grave digging process but also increases safety hazards for workers. Gravediggers face risks such as cold stress, hypothermia, frostbite, and potential injuries from the strenuous activity of shoveling frozen ground. Moreover, the tools used in this process are more prone to breaking in cold conditions, necessitating thorough inspections before use and potentially causing further delays.
To combat these challenges, cemeteries are turning to specialized equipment and innovative solutions. High-powered torches are being employed to melt the stubborn frozen earth, while jackhammers and frost teeth are used to break through the icy crust. One particularly effective modern solution is the use of ground thawing blankets, which can quickly thaw frozen ground, saving both time and money.
These ground thawing blankets, such as those produced by Powerblanket, have proven successful in cemetery applications, reducing labor and landscaping costs. Their versatility extends beyond grave digging, finding applications in preparing ground for concrete pouring, melting snow, and ensuring safety on walkways.
The Human Impact
The difficulties posed by winter weather on burial services extend beyond logistical challenges. In some areas, like North Dakota, traditional grave digging becomes impossible during winter, leading to delayed burials. This situation can cause significant emotional distress for grieving families, who must postpone their final farewells to loved ones.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the fact that mortality rates typically peak during winter months. This increased demand for burial services coincides with the most challenging time for cemeteries to provide them, creating a difficult predicament for funeral homes and grieving families alike.
The impact of severe winter weather on burial services is not isolated to traditionally colder regions. Recent winter storms have affected even the Southern United States, with the National Weather Service issuing winter storm and blizzard warnings across multiple states. A historic winter storm has broken records in Florida and Louisiana, while winter weather alerts are in place across Texas, New York, Michigan, and the Carolinas.
Interestingly, snow cover can sometimes help insulate the ground, making it easier to dig compared to cold weather without snow. However, snow presents its own challenges by covering critical cemetery landmarks such as headstones and mapped plots, further complicating the burial process.
As temperatures are expected to return to normal by the weekend, cemeteries and funeral services hope for some relief.
Are you as ready for spring as we are?