Weather
Mississippi Winter Weather Awareness Week: What Makes a Blizzard?
Jackson, MS – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Mississippi residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are excep
By Wesley Grant · 2026-10-25T17:39:39.412Z
Jackson, MS – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Mississippi residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? Although blizzards are exceptionally rare in Mississippi, winter weather can still create dangerous roads, power outages and freezing 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 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 when blowing snow sharply reduces visibility and makes roads difficult to navigate.
What Should Mississippi 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: Ice melt, rock salt, traction materials and a shovel where appropriate. 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 Mississippi From Jackson and Hinds County to Tupelo, Oxford, Southaven, Meridian, Hattiesburg, Gulfport and Biloxi, winter storms can disrupt travel and essential services across the state.
Northern Mississippi communities near Tupelo, Oxford and the Tennessee border are generally more likely to experience accumulating snow and prolonged freezing temperatures than areas along the Gulf Coast.
Across central and southern Mississippi, freezing rain, sleet and ice can pose greater threats than blizzards. Even small amounts of ice can make bridges and overpasses hazardous.
Interstate 55, Interstate 20, Interstate 22, Interstate 59 and Interstate 10 can become dangerous during winter weather, particularly where road surfaces freeze before drivers expect them to.
Ice accumulation can also bring down tree limbs and power lines, leaving households without electricity or 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 and Mississippi 511 road conditions.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.