Who / What
A blizzard warning is a hazardous weather statement issued by Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) of the National Weather Service (NWS) in the United States. It signals that heavy snowfall accompanied by sustained winds or frequent gusts of 35 mph (56 km/h) or greater is forecast to persist for at least three hours, and that visibility is expected to drop to a quarter mile (400 m) or less. A severe blizzard warning applies when winds exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) and temperatures fall below 10 °F (−12 °C).
Background & History
The blizzard warning was formalized by the National Weather Service as part of its suite of hazardous weather statements. The warning’s SAME code is **BZW**, allowing automated alert systems to disseminate the message to the public. While the exact date of its introduction is not specified, it has become a standard tool for NWS Weather Forecast Offices to warn communities during extreme winter storms. Over time, the warning has incorporated a severe variant to address more intense wind and temperature conditions.
Why Notable
Blizzard warnings play a critical role in public safety by providing timely alerts about hazardous winter weather that can cripple transportation, damage infrastructure, and endanger lives. By stipulating specific wind, temperature, and visibility thresholds, the NWS equips authorities and residents with actionable information. The existence of a severe blizzard warning underscores the NWS’s commitment to tailoring alerts to the severity of the impending event.
In the News
Winter storms continue to pose significant risks across the United States, making blizzard warnings a key focus of national weather reporting. Recent severe blizzards have highlighted the need for accurate and rapid dissemination of WFO alerts. Keeping the public informed remains essential during these high‑impact weather events.
