Different terminology for snow storms

[debodun]

Blizzard - to be officially classified as a blizzard, a storm must have sustained winds or frequent gusts of 35 mph or greater, and falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to less than a quarter-mile for at least three consecutive hours.

Squall - a sudden, intense burst of snow and strong, gusty winds that can drastically reduce visibility to near-zero (whiteout conditions). They are short-lived, usually lasting between 30 and 60 minutes.

Shower - a short, intermittent period of snowfall. Tend to fall from cumuliform clouds.

Flurry - a light, brief snowfall that leaves little to no accumulation on the ground. Tend to form from stratiform clouds.

 

[David777]

We Tahoe skiers in heavy falling snow often blurt out, its DUMPING. I sometimes ski during storms if not windy because that is when fresh snow for powder skiing is softest, lightest. This winter will set up a storm video during a storm event.