The world has some amazing weather. Wind and rain aren't the only events that plague citizens around the world. Snow also plays a big role in the winter for many. One of the worst winter events is the blizzard, but what is a blizzard? In this entertaining book filled with fun facts, history, and science, readers will discover the ins and outs of this powerful storm. This book explores the mechanics of blizzards and the science behind them. It describes how blizzards form, what damage they cause, and steps scientists and the public can take to be prepared and stay safe during blizzard events.

A winter snowfall can be beautiful. But if conditions call for dense snow, freezing temperatures, and bone-chilling wind, you are in for a dangerous blizzard. These blinding, swirling storms can shut down roads and damage buildings. Violent winds can thrash vehicles driving on icy roads. Snowdrifts can pile up to block streets or even cover houses. Blizzards can knock out power and threaten the lives of people stranded inside for days—or worse, those caught outside in the storm. With dramatic images and first-hand survivor stories—plus the latest facts and figures—this book shows you blizzard disasters up close.

Describes the incredible power of blizzards, from the blizzard of 1888 to blizzards in 1997, tells what makes a blizzard and how scientists try to forecast them.

Publisher Description

Winter winds blow snow at 35 miles per hour or more for at least three hours during a blizzard! Young readers will learn how blizzards form and why blizzard conditions temporarily shut down communities.

Blizzard is based on John Rocco's childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought fifty-three inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island. Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations, the book opens with a boy's excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood's immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first. John uses an increasing amount of white space in his playful images, which include a gatefold spread of the boy's expedition to the store. This book about the wonder of a winter storm is as delicious as a mug of hot cocoa by the fire on a snowy day. Praise for Super Hair-o and the Barber of Doom "With a light, humorous touch, Rocco reveals that sometimes the Kryptonite is all in your head." --Publishers Weekly "Bold, colorful pen-and-ink illustrations burst with power from each spread in comic-book style. This story will make a feel-good impression on budding comic book/superhero fans." --School Library Journal Praise for Blackout "The plot line, conveyed with just a few sentences, is simple enough, but the dramatic illustrations illuminate the story...Not all young readers will have experienced a blackout, but this engaging snapshot could easily have them wishing for one." --Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "The colorful pictures work beautifully with the book's design. Rocco uses comic-strip panels and a brief text to convey the atmosphere of a lively and almost magical urban landscape. Great bedtime reading for a soft summer night." --School Library Journal (starred review) 2012 Caldecott Honor BookNew York Times Notable BookWall Street Journal Best Book of the YearPublisher's Weekly Best Book of the YearSchool Library Journal Best Book of the YearKirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year -- Praise for Fu Finds the Way "Rocco's story flows smoothly and his illustrations are rich and appealing..." --Kirkus Reviews

Whipping wind blows snow into tall drifts across the road. Will cars be able to pass? This dilemma is just one effect of the powerful storms discussed in this low-level title. Engaging text and vibrant photos combine to tell readers how blizzards form, how they are forecast, and what damage they can cause. Special features such as a map, a formation diagram, a windchill chart, and a notable blizzard profile add to readers’ understanding of this brutal natural disaster.