Cera Thomason, Rachel Trieschmann, Brian Hebbeln

A mass of polar air meets a mass of warm air.

Polar air pushes warm air up and settles in the atmosphere where water vapor forms snow clouds.

Winds and low temperatures combine with the snow to create a blizzard.

Measured by: wind speed, barometric pressure, inches

Conditions of a North America blizzard:◦ At least 25 mph wind speeds◦ Heavy snow fall and low visibility◦ Last at least 3 hours

Where: Northeastern U.S., Canada, Northern Europe, and Northern Asia

Warning Signs: Strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chills are expected. Best to stay updated with news reports.

January 12- Blizzards hit Dakota Territory, the states of Montana, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas and Texas.

235 dead, mostly children on their way home from school

March 11- “The Great Blizzard of ‘88” begins along the eastern seaboard of the U.S., shutting down commerce and killing more than 400.

Seek shelter immediately

Keep emergency supplies inside trunk and keep gas tank full for emergency use.

If possible, let someone know your destination, route and expected arrival.

Cell phones are great, but keep a limited use to avoid overloading the cellular system.◦ Approximately:

70% of deaths are due to automobile accidents 25% are caught out in the storm 20% are at home

Rachel Trieschmann, Cera Thomason, Brian Hebbeln