Weather
Georgia Winter Weather Awareness Week: What Makes a Blizzard?
Atlanta, GA – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Georgia residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are extremely
By Marcus Hale · 2026-10-25T17:31:44.776Z
Atlanta, GA – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Georgia residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are extremely rare in Georgia, understanding what qualifies as one can help families prepare for dangerous winter 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 necessarily required. Strong winds can lift snow already on the ground, creating dangerous whiteouts even after snowfall has stopped.
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 as visibility drops and roads become difficult to navigate.
What Should Georgia 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 tank of gas, blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper and emergency supplies. Snow removal: 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 Georgia From Atlanta and Fulton County to Athens, Gainesville, Rome and communities throughout North Georgia, winter storms can create hazardous travel conditions.
While blizzards are exceptionally uncommon, mountain communities near Blue Ridge, Blairsville and Dahlonega can experience snowfall, freezing temperatures and icy roads.
Across metro Atlanta and central Georgia, freezing rain and ice can pose greater winter threats, disrupting travel along Interstate 75, Interstate 85, Interstate 20 and Interstate 285.
Even small amounts of ice can make bridges and overpasses dangerous, while power outages may leave households without heat.
As Winter Weather Awareness Week continues through Saturday, October 31, residents are encouraged to review emergency plans, check supplies and monitor official NWS forecasts.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.