Are Iowa Blizzards Considered Natural Disasters?

Tornados, floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes are all well-known natural disasters. Iowa knows far too well how scary these disasters can be and the damage that they can cause. This past Tuesday (January 9), much of Iowa saw its first really big taste of snow.

Various eastern Iowa cities recorded anywhere from 8 to 15 inches of snow and a winter weather warning was issued for most of the state. When extreme snowfall and wind occur like it did this past week, I was curious if a blizzard was considered a natural disaster or if it simply is just called a storm.

When I think of natural disasters, I think of incredible amounts of damage, everyone being told to stay in their homes, loss of power, having an emergency kit, making sure you have food/water for a few days, staying in your basement, etc. For something to be considered a natural disaster, does it need to stop the world from spinning and force us to run for cover?

Natural Disaster?

Hopefully, you're snow blower and shovel are in good condition because it looks like more snow is on the way. I'm starting to wonder where I'm going to put it all when shoveling my driveway...

Are blizzards considered a natural disaster? According to Homeland Security,

Natural disasters include all types of severe weather, which have the potential to pose a significant threat to human health and safety, property, critical infrastructure, and homeland security.

Homeland Security mentions floods, tornados, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and winter storms all being considered natural disasters.

Even though staying home during a blizzard and not venturing out on the roads is the safest option, most people function about the same during a blizzard. Perhaps at a slower pace. Most people still head to work, drive home, run errands, and go about their day as normal, it just takes longer to get where you need to go.

If we do see more snow coming our way this week be careful on the roadways. Most people will have to continue their days as normal and here's your friendly reminder to leave early and plan ahead. There's no point in getting frustrated with everyone else on the road because if you weren't aware...we're all driving around during a natural disaster!