Snowed-in

The adjective 'snowed-in' describes a state of being confined or isolated due to heavy snowfall. This often prevents travel, work, and normal activities. It implies roads are blocked, transportation is disrupted, and individuals or communities are effectively trapped or restricted by the accumulation of snow. The duration can range from a few hours to several days, dependent on the severity of the weather and the efficiency of snow removal efforts. The term evokes a sense of temporary inconvenience, isolation, and sometimes, depending on preparedness, a degree of hardship.

Snowed-in meaning with examples

• The remote mountain village was completely snowed-in after the blizzard, cutting off access to any outside help or supplies. Residents huddled inside, rationing food and waiting for the snowplows to arrive. They had to depend on their own resources for warmth, sustenance, and entertainment until the roads became passable, leaving many people feeling anxious.
• After the unexpected overnight snowfall, the small town was snowed-in. Commuters were unable to reach their offices. Schools were closed and children were given a snow day. Many flights were delayed and eventually canceled. People gathered together to help clear driveways for neighbors, and played board games to pass the time until it cleared.
• The hikers realized they were snowed-in when they awoke and saw that the heavy snowfall covered the trail. They quickly built a makeshift shelter to conserve supplies until they could safely continue to the base. After 4 days of snow and the low temperatures, they made the risky attempt to hike down the mountain in hopes to receive help.
• Following the heavy blizzard that swept through the city, the elderly couple was snowed-in. They were unable to clear their sidewalk and driveway, and were fearful to step outside to go to the store for supplies. Luckily their grandchildren brought them supplies for the rest of the week.
• The entire region was snowed-in. Snowplows and road crews worked tirelessly to clear the main highways, but many smaller communities remained isolated. Emergency services were stretched thin. Rescuers and doctors were unable to visit the snowed-in communities to assist those in need, waiting for the heavy snow to recede.