I would say that survivability doesn't depend so much on the type of storm as it does the degree of preparation by individuals and local government.
We live in the coastal southeast, so we get more threats from hurricanes than snow storms, and we've never had a blizzard. However, the principle is the same for preparation. The only additional preparation for a blizzard would be for maintaining warmth indoors. In our situation, we have a wood stove and lots of wood. Not everyone has that. If necessary, those with wood stoves or fireplaces could invite neighbors to share resources and residences. Every single house in our subdivision was built with a working fireplace but not everyone uses their fireplace. Lots of hardwood trees get cut down in our subdivision every year. If people wanted, they wouldn't even need to buy any firewood; lots of it just gets hauled away.
For both blizzards and hurricanes, people should keep stocked up on food, water, cash, fuel, first aid and personal hygiene products, batteries, and flashlights. They should keep important papers in one safe location, and have escape plans. They should heed weather warnings. For those who don't live in the urban areas, chain saws and other tools should be kept in ready condition.