3 people died while removing snow in Lehigh County, coroner says

Three separate people died while shoveling or removing snow in the Lehigh Valley during Sunday’s snowstorm in Pennsylvania, according to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office.

In a press release, Lehigh County Coroner Daniel Buglio revealed that three people ranging in age from 60 to 84 years old were shoveling or cleaning up snow on Sunday, Jan. 26, during the winter storm when they experienced a medical emergency.

Buglio did not reveal the identities of the victims out of respect for their family members but said all three died from natural causes.

“These incidents are consistent with sudden medical events, often cardiac-related, that can occur during strenuous activity such as snow removal, particularly in older adults or those with underlying health conditions,” Buglio wrote. “I remind the public to use caution when shoveling snow, take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and seek assistance when possible – especially individuals with a history of heart disease or other medical concerns.”