A severe snowstorm with strong winds (>56 km/h), heavy snow and very low visibility (<400 m) for at least 3 hours.
phenomenaWhat is Blizzard?
Blizzards are defined by the US NWS as snowstorms with sustained winds above 56 km/h and visibility below 400 metres for at least 3 hours. They are not a Southeast Asian phenomenon but can affect the highest elevations of northern Myanmar and the Himalayan border regions. Travellers from the region encounter blizzards when visiting northern Japan, Korea or high-altitude trekking routes.
Key points
- A severe snowstorm with strong winds (>56 km/h), heavy snow and very low visibility (<400 m) for at least 3 hours.
- Category: phenomena
Related terms
See also: blizzard is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.