National Weather Service

Winter Storm Warnings

Winter Storm Warning

Issued for a combination of heavy snow and/or ice, of which, at least one exceeds or meets warning criteria. Winter weather is expected to cause life-threatening public impact for a combination of winter hazards including heavy snow, ice, near blizzard conditions, blowing and drifting snow and/or dangerous wind chills.

Lake-Effect Snow Warning

Issued for 7 inches or more of lake-effect snow.

Wind Chill Warning

Issued when the wind chill is expected to be -25F or less. Frostbite can occur in less than 10 minutes.

Ice Storm Warning

Issued for a ½ inch or more of ice accumulation that causes damage to power lines and trees. Ice Storm Warnings are issued when there is a high degree of confidence that the entire event is expected to be ice.

Blizzard Warning

Issued when blizzard conditions are imminent or expected in the next 12 to 24 hours. Blizzard conditions include sustained or frequent gusts of or above 35 mph AND considerable falling, blowing and drifting of snow reducing visibilities frequently 1/4 mile.