Weather
North Carolina Winter Weather Awareness Week: Snowstorm Dangers
Raleigh, NC – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for North Carolina residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise y
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-25T17:27:22.227Z
Raleigh, NC – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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 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 North Carolina From Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville and communities throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, winter storms can create dangerous conditions across North Carolina.
Although blizzards are uncommon across much of the state, higher elevations near Boone, Banner Elk and the Appalachian Mountains can experience powerful winds, heavy snowfall and dangerous whiteout conditions.
Ice storms and freezing rain can also disrupt travel along Interstate 40, Interstate 77, Interstate 85 and mountain highways, while power outages may leave communities without heat.
Along the Outer Banks, strong coastal winds can worsen winter storm impacts, although blizzard conditions remain relatively rare.
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.