"Dave Wheeler" wrote in message
...

Observers Handbook (fourth edition)
"Blizzard: the simultaneous occurrence of moderate ot heavy snowfall and
winds of at least force 7 (28 knots) which causes drifting snow and a
reduction of the visibility to 200 m or less"

"Severe blizzard: the simultaneous occurrence of moderate ot heavy
snowfall and winds of at least force 9 (41 knots) which causes drifting
snow and a reduction of the visibility to near zero"

It goes on to say that .... "These terms will not be applied to passing
snow showers but only if a wide area is affected and the conditions last
long enough to cause serious interference to human mobility, or
disruption of communications."

I've not been able to find reference to 'Blizzards' in the 'SPOT-ON
Observers Guide' - the, to quote, "Met Office's updated guide to
observing practices for the UK land-based observing network". But then
I'm not suprised - while this 'guide' may help observers fill in the
spaces on the CODET it's absolutely pathetic for 'real' observing. My
SPOT-ON guide - despite its flashy plastic waterproof cover with its
snap-shut flap - resides unloved on the bookshelf alongside the much
thumbed 'Handbook.

Bring back the days when observers were taught to observe by
professionals at the Met Office college. What you get out is only as
good as what you put in - fewer dependable obs and chaos can result.
Admited AWS are improving but they should be used to fill in the gaps
between the MK1 eyeball!

rant mode off

Dave
Fair Isle

Thanks for taking the time out to give a thorough explanation Dave.
I imagine you are under the influence of a Severe blizzard yourself at the
moment.
The Kirwall and Wick metars are outrageously bad. Looks as though one of the
most severe polar lows for a long time is heading south.
Alex.