The weather service defines a blizzard as a severe snowstorm in which winds must be sustained or frequently gusting at least 35 mph, falling or blowing snow must reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less, and these conditions must persist for at least three hours. Blizzard warnings are rare in Kansas City, according to data examined by The Star.

The weekend looks to be sunny and springlike, but first, a big blast of winter. A storm bringing a little bit of everything — rain, gusty winds, snow, and blizzard and whiteout conditions — will strike the state from Tuesday night through Wednesday afternoon,

A powerful late winter/early spring storm will surge through the Kansas City area this week, threatening to bring heavy rains, howling winds, severe thunderstorms and snow, according to the National Weather Service.