Weather
Arkansas Winter Weather Awareness Week: Blizzard Dangers Explained
Little Rock, AR – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Arkansas residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are unco
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-25T17:38:59.739Z
Little Rock, AR – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Arkansas residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are uncommon in the Natural State, snow, ice and freezing temperatures can still create dangerous conditions.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , a blizzard occurs when sustained winds or frequent gusts reach at least 35 mph, accompanied by falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to one quarter mile or less for at least three hours.
Heavy snowfall isn't required. Strong winds can lift snow already on the ground, creating dangerous whiteouts even after new snowfall stops.
What's the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning? A Winter Storm Watch means significant winter weather is possible, giving residents time to prepare.
A Winter Storm Warning means dangerous winter conditions are expected or already occurring.
A Blizzard Warning indicates blizzard conditions are expected or underway. Travel can become extremely dangerous when blowing snow sharply reduces visibility.
What Should Arkansas Residents Have Ready? Before winter weather arrives, households should prepare emergency supplies, including:
Food and water: At least three days of nonperishable food and one gallon of water per person daily. Warmth: Extra blankets, sleeping bags, winter clothing and safe backup heating options. Emergency supplies: Flashlights, batteries, medications, first aid kits and charged power banks. Vehicles: A full gas tank, blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel and emergency supplies. Ice preparation: Shovels, ice melt, rock salt and traction materials. Never operate generators, outdoor grills or other fuel burning outdoor equipment indoors or inside garages because of deadly carbon monoxide risks.
Why It Matters Across Arkansas From Little Rock and Pulaski County to Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Conway and communities throughout northern Arkansas, winter storms can disrupt travel and essential services.
The Ozark and Ouachita mountains can experience accumulating snow and freezing temperatures, while northern Arkansas communities face risks from snow covered roads and blowing snow.
Interstate 40, Interstate 49, Interstate 30 and Interstate 55 can become hazardous during winter storms, particularly on bridges, overpasses and exposed stretches of highway.
Across central and southern Arkansas, freezing rain and ice storms are often more significant concerns than blizzards. Ice accumulation can damage trees, bring down power lines and leave households without electricity.
As Winter Weather Awareness Week continues through Saturday, October 31, residents are encouraged to review emergency plans, check supplies and monitor official NWS forecasts and IDriveArkansas road conditions.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.