Weather
Kansas Winter Weather Awareness Week Oct 25-31: Know the Blizzard Signs
Topeka, KS – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Kansas residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Across the state's open plains, da
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-10-25T17:41:01.392Z
Topeka, KS – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Kansas residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Across the state's open plains, dangerous whiteouts can develop even when little new snow is falling.
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 existing snow from fields and roads, producing a ground blizzard that makes travel extremely dangerous.
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 snowdrifts block highways.
What Should Kansas Residents Have Ready? Before winter storms arrive, 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, insulated 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. 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 Kansas From Wichita and Sedgwick County to Topeka, Lawrence, the Kansas City metropolitan area, Salina, Hays and Dodge City, winter storms can create dangerous travel conditions statewide.
Kansas' open agricultural landscape allows strong winds to sweep across fields, lifting snow and reducing visibility on exposed roads.
Interstate 70, Interstate 35, Interstate 135 and Interstate 335 can experience blowing snow, dangerous drifting and sudden whiteouts during winter storms.
Western Kansas is especially vulnerable to strong winds and rapidly changing visibility. Rural highways may become impassable when drifting snow accumulates, even after snowfall has stopped.
Eastern Kansas also faces freezing rain and ice storm risks, which can damage trees, interrupt electricity and make bridges hazardous.
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 KanDrive road conditions.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.