ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – As colder weather picks up throughout New Mexico, some parts of the state are even starting to see near-blizzard-like conditions. But what exactly is a blizzard? According to the National Weather Service, blizzards occur when a combination of snow and wind results in low visibility. Even though severe cold and heavy snowfall are often associated with blizzards, they are not necessary conditions. Wind can pick up snow that has already fallen, creating a lack of visibility and, thus, a blizzard. What feels like colder-than-normal temperatures during a blizzard can often be wind chill. Winter storm to bring heavy snow in parts of New Mexico While the snow is not necessarily dangerous by itself, the combination of wind and snow during a blizzard can be. In blizzards, low visibility can lead to car crashes, pipes can freeze, and wind can cause power outages. When it comes to specific numbers, the National Weather Service defines a blizzard as having winds at or over 35 miles per hour, visibility at less than one-quarter of a mile, and lasting for three or more hours. In New Mexico, the northeast plains and northeast highlands are the most blizzard-prone areas, according to the National Weather Service. What can New Mexico expect this winter, according to the 2024 Farmer’s Almanac? If you are driving when a blizzard occurs, here are some basic safety tips to keep in mind: Wear your seatbelt: Wear your seatbelt to ensure that everyone inside the vehicle is safe if a crash occurs. Take it slow: Take your time when driving on snow and ice. Slow down to avoid crashing into other cars or things nearby. Increase your following distance: Stay far back from other cars in case your tires slip while stopping. Avoid using cruise control:  Never use cruise control when the roads are slick. It can reduce your control of the vehicle if your tires begin to skid or slip Stop your car: If visibility gets bad, pull over and wait out the storm. Turn off your tail and brake lights so that other cars don't mistakenly follow you, and put on your parking brake. Stay in your car: Low visibility can be disorienting, so it is safest to stay in your vehicle during a blizzard. The National Weather Service advises running the motor for about 10 minutes each hour to stay warm and to open the window a bit each time you run the motor to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Be visible to rescuers: Turn on the dome light when running the engine. Tie a brightly-colored cloth to the outside of your car. For more winter driving safety tips, click here. For the latest weather coverage, click here.