A blizzard is a big snowstorm. Make sure you read about snow before you read about a blizzard.

A blizzard happens when there is a lot of snow falling for a long time. There must also be wind. The freezing temperature helps the snow stay on the ground.

A blizzard usually has to snow for at least three hours for the snow to pile up. It is very cold outside during a blizzard. The cold air keeps the snow from melting.

If you are outside during a blizzard, you must dress warmly. This includes a coat, a hat and gloves. The wind makes the air feel colder. It is best to stay inside during a blizzard.

In February 2010, there was a huge blizzard in the North Atlantic Region of the United States. In one day, Washington, D.C. recorded between 12 and 21 inches of snowfall! The blizzard closed schools across the region. It also closed many United States government offices.