On Thursday at 11:56 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a snow squall warning in effect until 12:45 p.m. for Albany, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady and Schoharie counties.
"At 11:55 a.m., a dangerous snow squall was located near Duanesburg, or 8 miles south of Amsterdam, moving east at 40 mph," says the weather service. "Other locations impacted by this snow squall include Shakers, Bleecker Stadium, Glenridge, Hoffmans, Rockwell Corners, Albia, Harding Crossing, Young Corners, Garrison Manor, and Quaker Street."
"Travel will become difficult and potentially dangerous within minutes," states the weather service. "There is no safe place on a highway when a snow squall hits. Visibility and traction are immediately lost in whiteout conditions, making it difficult or impossible to slow down and avoid stopped vehicles. Delay travel or safely exit the highway before the snow squall arrives."
Hazards include intense bursts of heavy snow. Gusty winds leading to blowing snow and visibility rapidly falling to less than one-quarter mile. Wind gusts greater than 35 mph.
Snow squalls are intense winter weather events often associated with strong cold fronts. They can quickly blanket roads with snow and ice, even without a major winter storm in the forecast. Typically lasting less than an hour and resulting in minor snow accumulation, these squalls can still be dangerous due to reduced visibility, gusty winds, and rapidly dropping temperatures. Unfortunately, these conditions have historically contributed to serious and sometimes fatal traffic accidents.
The main distinction between a snow squall and a snowstorm lies in their duration and intensity. Snow squalls are typically brief but intense, lasting around 30-60 minutes. In contrast, a snowstorm can stretch over several hours or even days
Snow squall warnings are short-fused and focused on distinct areas (like tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings). These warnings provide critical, highly localized life-saving information. If a snow squall warning is issued for your area, avoid or delay motor travel until the squall passes through your location.
In response to a snow squall warning, individuals should follow the guidelines provided by the weather service, which encompass the following key actions:
Avoid or delay travel: If a snow Squall warning is issued for your area, avoid or delay motor travel until the squall passes through your location. There truly is no safe place on the highway during a snow squall.
Reduce speed and increase visibility: If you find yourself already on the road during a snow squall, prioritize safety by reducing your speed. Turn on both your headlights and hazard lights to enhance visibility for yourself and other drivers.
Maintain safe distance: Allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you.
Avoid abrupt braking: It’s also best not to slam on your brakes. With slick/icy roads, this could contribute to the loss of vehicle control and also increase the risk of a chain reaction crash.
Winter weather safety tips: For tips on how to stay safe before, during, and after winter weather, visit the weather service Winter Weather Safety page.
Prepare your vehicle: Prior to traveling, take steps to prepare your vehicle for winter conditions by inspecting tires, brakes, and lights, and confirming all fluids are at appropriate levels. A properly cared-for vehicle is more prepared to tackle the obstacles of winter driving.
Emergency kit essentials: Always have a well-prepared emergency kit in your vehicle containing crucial supplies like blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Additionally, include jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, an ice scraper, a car cell phone charger, a map, and cat litter or sand for improved tire traction. These items can be invaluable should you encounter an unexpected breakdown or emergency while on the road.
In conclusion, when faced with a snow squall warning, prioritizing personal safety and adhering to the weather service recommendations can significantly mitigate risks. By understanding, preparing, and staying vigilant, individuals can navigate these winter hazards with greater confidence and security.
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