The difference between a Winter Storm Warning and Blizzard Warning

The Winter Storm Warning in effect for western Illinois was upgraded to a BLIZZARD WARNING Sunday ahead of a massive storm.

However, what is the difference between the two?

According to the National Weather Service, “a Winter Storm Warning indicates that heavy snow of at least 6 inches in 12 hours, or at least 8 inches in 24 hours, is expected. It can also be issued if sleet accumulation will be at least half an inch.”

“A Blizzard Warning indicates that blizzard conditions (low visibility of less than 1/4 mile due to falling and/or blowing snow, and winds at least 35 mph) are expected for at least 3 hours,” the National Weather Service said on their website.

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