- A blizzard is a severe and dangerous winter storm marked by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and significantly reduced visibility.
- Unlike a typical snowstorm, a blizzard is defined more by its intensity and duration than by the amount of snow that falls. For a storm to be classified as a blizzard, it must have sustained winds or frequent gusts of at least 35 miles per hour (56 kilometers per hour) and visibility reduced to a quarter mile (0.4 kilometers) or less due to falling or blowing snow, all lasting for at least three consecutive hours. These conditions create a hostile environment that poses serious risks to transportation, infrastructure, and human safety.
- Blizzards typically form when a cold air mass collides with a moist, warm air mass, often along a low-pressure system. As the warmer air rises over the colder air, it cools and condenses, producing precipitation—usually snow in winter conditions. When strong winds accompany this snowfall, they lift and blow the snow around, drastically reducing visibility and creating a whiteout effect. In some cases, blizzards occur without new snow falling; instead, strong winds blow existing snow on the ground, a phenomenon known as a “ground blizzard.”
- The effects of a blizzard can be widespread and long-lasting. High winds and accumulating snow often lead to snowdrifts, making roads impassable and disrupting transportation networks. Power outages are common as heavy snow and ice accumulate on power lines and trees, which may then fall under the weight. Emergency services and public utilities may be stretched thin, especially in rural or isolated regions. For individuals, exposure to blizzard conditions can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, or even death if shelter is not found quickly. As such, authorities frequently issue blizzard warnings to urge people to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Blizzards can also have significant economic impacts. Cities may need to spend millions on snow removal and repairs, while schools, businesses, and government offices often close for safety. In rural and agricultural regions, livestock and crops can suffer from prolonged exposure to extreme cold. Despite advancements in meteorology that allow for earlier and more accurate forecasts, the unpredictable nature of blizzards means they remain one of the most disruptive forms of severe weather. Preparedness, timely alerts, and community support systems are essential in mitigating the dangers posed by these powerful storms.
