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DENVER (KDVR) — A winter storm will arrive in Denver on Tuesday evening, brining several inches of snow and arctic cold along with it.

We’ve issued a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day for Wednesday.

Some areas are under a winter storm warning. Winter Storm Warnings (pink) start at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Winter Weather Advisories (purple) start at 5 p.m. Tuesday.

So what is the difference between a winter storm warning and a blizzard warning?

What is a Blizzard Warning?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says a Blizzard Warning is issued when there are the following conditions:

  • Low visibility of less than a quarter mile due to falling and/or blowing snow
  • Winds at least 35 mph are expected for at least 3 hours

What is a Winter Storm Warning?

NOAA says a winter storm warning is issued for the following conditions:

  • Heavy snow of at least 6 inches in 12 hours, or at least 8 inches in 24 hours, is expected
  •  It can also be issued if sleet accumulation will be at least half an inch. 

We will continue to update the forecast multiple times each day. Be sure to download the free Pinpoint Weather App to stay up-to-date with the newest data as we get it.