If one were stranded in the water in the height of summer heat, over night, can one die from hypothermia?

Question

I am also wondering if a coroner would recognize the difference between a drowning death and a hypothermic death which occured before lowering into the water. The body of water in question is a bay which likely connects to the ocean in western canada.

Answer 1

The answer to the first question is yes. It depends on which part f the world you live in. In the caribean you can be all day in the water and hypotermia would not be a problem. Sharks however...... Up in Canada is a different story. The waters up north are always Cold. You have to remember that heat is transfered from hot to cold. Meaning that since the water is cold your body heat will be transfered to the water. Usually during the summer the water temperature is still 60 F. Body temperature is in the 90. That is at least 30 degree differense. You only need to lower your body temperature a few degrees in order to suffer from hypothermia. It will happen just not quickly as lets say freezing water.

Answer 2

Hmm, good question. I am certainly no expert, but I would think that hypothermia is possible, but the water probably wouldn't get cold enough to cause it over night.

A coroner would recognize the difference for sure. When a person drowns, you can see that water in their lungs and body. They are very good at figuring out how a person died.