What does lake effect snow have to do with blizzards?

Lake effect snow occurs when cold air moves over relatively warmer lake waters, picking up moisture and leading to heavy snowfall downwind of the lake. This phenomenon can significantly enhance snowfall amounts during winter storms, potentially contributing to blizzard conditions if the snow is accompanied by strong winds and low visibility. Blizzards are defined by sustained winds of 35 mph or more combined with heavy snowfall, and lake effect snow can exacerbate these conditions, leading to severe winter weather impacts.