Weather
Minnesota Winter Weather Awareness Week Oct 25-31: What Makes a Blizzard?
Minneapolis, MN – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Minnesota residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise yo
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-25T17:35:59.024Z
Minneapolis, MN – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Minnesota residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise you, especially because heavy snowfall isn't always required.
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.
Even snow already on the ground can produce blizzard conditions when powerful winds lift it into the air, creating dangerous whiteouts.
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 is issued when blizzard conditions are expected or underway. Travel can quickly become dangerous as blowing snow reduces visibility and roads become difficult to navigate.
What Should Minnesota 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, 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, 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 Minnesota From Minneapolis and Hennepin County to St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud and communities throughout western Minnesota, winter storms can create dangerous conditions statewide.
Strong winds across the Red River Valley and open farmland in western and southern Minnesota can produce widespread blowing snow, dangerous drifting and sudden whiteouts.
Heavy snowfall near Lake Superior and powerful winter storms can disrupt travel along Interstate 94, Interstate 35, Interstate 90 and rural highways.
In western Minnesota, ground blizzards can develop when strong winds lift existing snow, creating dangerous conditions even without new snowfall.
Power outages, blocked roads and extreme cold can also delay emergency assistance, particularly in rural communities.
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.