BLIZZARD

What is blizzard?

• A blizzard is a storm which is a combination of wind and blowing snow resulting in low visibility. It is a lot stronger than a snowstorm and can sometimes happen when it is not snowing, as the wind picks up snow from other areas.

Low Visibility

Tons of snow

Strong winds

Winter Deaths

• Related to ice and snow:• 70% occur in automobiles• 25% get caught out in storms• Related to exposure of cold• 50% occur on people over 60• 20% occur in homes

Why are blizzards dangerous?

• Travelling in a vehicle may be impossible due to low visibility. You might also get trapped.

• The extreme cold and strong winds may cause hypothermia and frostbites.

Where can you find blizzards?

• Blizzards most commonly form in the Great Plains area of the United States, in Canada (eastern and central areas) and in Russia.

• It happens in areas which have cold weathers and are windy.

December 2010 North American blizzard

• Place: North-east area of the United State• Time: 26-27 December 2010• Average depth of snow in affected areas: 30-

81cm• Wind speed ranged from 80 to 150km/h• Lowest pressure: 916 millibars• Consequences: 60 million US dollars for

repairs and 7 fatalities.

Warning signs for a blizzard

• Wind (low pressure areas): If its is starting to get windy in the area(trees rustling heavily)

• Snow: Check for signs of snow in the clouds. If it snows for a few days and looks like it wont stop soon, there might be a blizzard.

• Animals: Animals can detect changes in their surroundings so look for something unusual.

• Check your weather radio frequently to know what's happening/

Preparing for a blizzard

• Items you will need:• A portable light source and batteries• Extra food and water• Extra medicine• First aid kit• Weather radio• Heating fuel• Fire extinguisher

How to survive a blizzard

• Do not eat snow as it will lower your body temperature, melt it first.

• Try to stay dry.• Cover all exposed parts of the body.• Look for shelter, if there is none available make your

own.• Try building a fire to keep warm.

THE END