I AM NOT an expert in polar conditions survival techniques but from the little I do know, I can tell that in a severe snow storm or similar thing, it is rather useless to attempt lighting a fire. Under these conditions you'd better spend your efforts in building a proper shelter like an igloo. To warm yourself up inside the igloo, dress up with dry clothes, get into that thermal sleeping bag, consume a few chocolate bars and "do the bycicle". In no time you'd be sweating.

In sub polar conditions, you may still light a fire with the bark of birch trees- They ignite readily even if wet. In sub tropic places, there are some thorny bushes that will also ignite if green.

In places like Patagonia, for example, there is very little chance to light a fire out in the woods: there rains 360 days a year and everything is soaked like a sponge. Better get a Primus stove. easier to find fuel than "tinder'.

The best advice is that if you plan a serious adventure, do your homework. Less than that, and if you go out just for your amusement, stay within reasonable range from the nearest Holiday Inn and Pizza Hut and away from life threatening situations.
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