A "blizzard" is a severe snowstorm characterized by strong winds and low visibility. To be classified as a blizzard, snowstorms typically need to have sustained winds of 35 mph (56 km/h) or higher, snow falling at a significant rate, and visibility of less than a quarter of a mile (0.4 km) for an extended period, usually three hours or more. A blizzard can create dangerous travel conditions, cause power outages, and lead to the accumulation of deep snow.
The word "blizzard" likely originated in the mid-19th century, with its first recorded use appearing in the 1840s. The exact origin is uncertain, but some sources suggest it might derive from the earlier word "blizz," meaning a sudden gunfire or a loud noise, possibly reflecting the fierce and chaotic nature of such storms.