Snow squalls, intense bursts of snow and wind, pose significant dangers on the road due to sudden whiteout conditions and slippery surfaces. These short-lived weather events can lead to severe traffic accidents, prompting new warnings by the National Weather Service. Drivers are advised to delay travel, enable emergency alerts, and drive defensively when caught in a snow squall.
Snow squalls are a formidable wintertime hazard that can catch drivers off guard with their sudden onset and intensity. These brief but intense bursts of snow and wind create whiteout conditions and slippery roads, leading to dangerous driving situations. The National Weather Service has introduced snow squall warnings to alert drivers of these conditions, similar to severe weather alerts like tornado warnings. Understanding the nature of snow squalls and how to respond can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Snow squalls are intense, short-lived weather events characterized by heavy snowfall and strong winds, leading to sudden whiteout conditions. Unlike snowstorms, which can last for hours or days, snow squalls typically last between 30 to 60 minutes but can be extremely dangerous due to their intensity and the rapid changes in visibility they cause. The National Weather Service describes them as a key wintertime hazard that can lead to serious traffic accidents, particularly when drivers are caught off guard [1] [2].
The National Weather Service has introduced snow squall warnings to provide better situational awareness and mitigate the impacts of these hazardous events. These warnings, similar to those issued for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes, alert drivers to the potential for sudden whiteout conditions and slick roadways. The warnings typically cover small, targeted areas and are in effect for short durations, usually 30 to 60 minutes. During a snow squall warning, drivers are advised to avoid travel until the squall has passed, as these conditions are responsible for some of the most deadly winter traffic crashes [2] [3].
To stay safe during a snow squall, the best advice is to delay travel if possible. If caught in a squall, drivers should enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on their phones to receive timely warnings and exit the road safely. Defensive driving techniques, such as turning on headlights and hazard lights, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoiding sudden braking or steering, are crucial. Remaining calm and staying in the vehicle with seatbelts fastened is also recommended if traffic stops [1] [4].
Snow squalls are a significant wintertime hazard that can lead to dangerous driving conditions due to their sudden onset and intensity. With the introduction of snow squall warnings by the National Weather Service, drivers now have better situational awareness to avoid potential accidents. By understanding the nature of snow squalls and following safety tips, such as delaying travel and driving defensively, individuals can protect themselves and others on the road.
"Over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually." - Department of Transportation
""Unfortunately, there is a long history of deadly traffic accidents associated with snow squalls,"" - National Weather Service