Weather
Missouri Winter Weather Awareness Week Oct 25-31: Prepare for Winter Storms
Jefferson City, MO – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Missouri residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? From Kansas City and St.
By Jenna Hartley · 2026-10-25T17:38:16.426Z
Jefferson City, MO – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for Missouri residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? From Kansas City and St. Louis to rural communities across the state, understanding the difference could help drivers avoid dangerous winter travel 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. Powerful 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 blowing snow reduces visibility and drifting snow blocks roads.
What Should Missouri 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 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 Missouri From Kansas City and Jackson County to St. Louis, Columbia, Jefferson City, Springfield and communities throughout northern Missouri, winter storms can create dangerous travel conditions.
Open farmland across northern and western Missouri allows strong winds to produce blowing and drifting snow. Rural highways can experience sudden visibility reductions, sometimes after new snowfall has ended.
Interstate 70, Interstate 44, Interstate 35, Interstate 29 and Interstate 55 are major travel corridors where snow, ice and strong winds can cause disruptions.
Missouri also faces significant freezing rain and ice storm risks, particularly across central and southern portions of the state. Ice accumulation can damage trees, interrupt power and make bridges and overpasses 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 Missouri's traveler information system.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.