Weather
West Virginia Winter Weather Awareness Week: Blizzard Dangers
Charleston, WV – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for West Virginia residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-25T17:24:16.893Z
Charleston, WV – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia From Charleston and Kanawha County to Huntington, Morgantown, Beckley and communities throughout the Allegheny Mountains, winter storms can create dangerous conditions across West Virginia.
Higher elevations, including areas near Snowshoe Mountain and Canaan Valley, can experience heavy snowfall, powerful winds and rapidly deteriorating visibility.
Winter storms can also disrupt travel along Interstate 64, Interstate 77, Interstate 79 and mountain highways, where steep grades and winding roads make icy conditions especially hazardous.
Power outages, drifting snow and blocked rural roads can delay emergency assistance, particularly in isolated mountain 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.