Blizzard Defined: Strong Winds + Snow + Whiteout Visibility Rules
• A blizzard is defined by sustained winds of 35 mph or greater and visibility reduced to a quarter mile or less for at least three hours.
• Blizzard conditions can occur even without new snowfall, as long as blowing snow reduces visibility.
• During a blizzard, it's crucial to stay indoors, avoid travel, and take precautions against hypothermia and power outages.
Blizzard defined by wind, snow, and visibility
A blizzard isn’t just any old snowstorm; it's a specific weather phenomenon defined by strict criteria. According to the National Weather Service, a blizzard is characterized by sustained winds or frequent gusts of at least 35 mph, combined with falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to a quarter mile or less. Critically, these conditions must persist for a minimum of three hours to officially qualify as a blizzard.
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