On Monday at 8:34 a.m. EST the National Weather Service issued an updated snow squall warning in effect until 9:30 a.m. EST for Branch, Hillsdale and St. Joseph counties.
“At 8:33 a.m., a dangerous snow squall was located along a line extending from Constantine to 8 miles east of Lagrange to near Edgerton, moving northeast at 20 mph,” according to the weather service. “Travel will become difficult and potentially dangerous within minutes.”
Locations impacted by the warning include Sturgis, Angola, Bronson, Fremont, Constantine, Hamilton, Centreville, Colon, Edon, Columbia, Ray, Nottawa, Kinderhook, Fawn River, California, Mendon, Burr Oak, Gilead, Camden and Orland. This includes the following highways: Interstate 69 in Indiana between mile markers 342 and 357. Interstate 69 in Michigan between mile markers 1 and 7. Interstate 80 in Indiana between mile markers 117 and 156. Interstate 80 in Ohio between mile markers 0 and 9.
The weather service comments, “Slow Down! Rapid changes in visibility and road conditions are expected with this dangerous snow squall. Be alert for sudden whiteout conditions.”
Hazards include intense bursts of heavy snow. Gusty winds leading to blowing snow and rapidly falling visibility. Wind gusts up to 35 mph.
Snow squalls: Safety protocols and prevention tips
What are snow squalls?
Snow squalls are brief but intense winter weather events often linked to strong cold fronts. They can cause sudden white-out conditions and icy roads within minutes, even if there’s no major winter storm happening. While they usually last less than an hour and might only result in minor snow accumulation, they pose significant risks to drivers due to reduced visibility, gusty winds, and rapidly falling temperatures. These conditions have historically led to deadly traffic accidents.
Understanding snow squalls vs. snowstorms
The difference between a snow squall and a snowstorm is the duration of the event. Snow squalls are usually very short-lived (on the order of 30-60 minutes) and extremely intense. A snowstorm could last for several hours or even days.
Snow squall warnings
Snow squall warnings are rapidly issued for specific areas, much like tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings. They offer crucial, localized information aimed at saving lives. If an alert for a snow squall is issued in your area, it’s best to postpone or avoid driving until the squall moves on.
Actions to take
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 are already in transit and cannot exit the road in time, reduce your speed, turn on your headlights and hazard lights.
Maintain safe distance: Allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you.
Avoid abrupt braking: In slippery and icy conditions, sudden braking can lead to loss of vehicle control. It’s safer to slow down gradually to minimize the risk of skidding or causing 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 hitting the road this winter, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready by inspecting tires, brakes, and lights, and confirming all fluids are at appropriate levels. A properly maintained vehicle is more capable of navigating the demands of winter roads.
Emergency kit essentials: Ensure your vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive emergency kit, featuring essentials such as blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget to add jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, an ice scraper, a car cell phone charger, a map, and cat litter or sand to enhance tire traction. These provisions can prove invaluable in the event of an unforeseen breakdown or emergency during your journey.
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.
