Published 17 hours ago • loading... • Updated 17 hours ago

What is a blizzard? It's more than just snow

To meteorologists, a blizzard hinges on wind and visibility, requiring sustained winds of 35 mph and quarter-mile visibility for three hours.
Powerful low-pressure systems tighten pressure gradients and accelerate winds that produce blizzard conditions, while coastal interactions feed moisture and enhance snowfall along exposed coastal locations like bridges and barrier islands.
Strong winds loft and redistribute snow, producing drifting and swirling snow that causes whiteout conditions even after heavy precipitation ends and piles snow on open and exposed roadways, making roads vanish for drivers and travelers.
Rural communities can become isolated for days, with power outages disrupting heating, communications, and water, while emergency responders face slowed response and urban centers struggle with transit shutdowns.
Coastal blizzards are often more complex and hazardous, as coastal and island communities including bridges and barrier islands face multi-hazard impacts demanding preparation and awareness by the public.

Insights by Ground AI