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An updated report from the NWS Spokane WA was issued on Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. for a snow squall until 6:45 p.m. The alert is for Washington Palouse, Spokane area and Northeast Mountains.
“At 6:14 p.m., a snow squall was located along a line extending from 9 miles south of Dishman to 12 miles west of Plummer. Movement was north at 35 mph. Winds in excess of 30 mph are possible with this squall,” comments the NWS.
Locations impacted by the alert include Spokane, Spokane Valley, Post Falls, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Hauser, Otis Orchards-East Farms, Otis Orchards, Green Acres, Trentwood, Dishman, Fairfield, Rosalia, Rockford, Oakesdale, Spangle, Worley, Latah, Waverly and State Line. This includes the following highways: Interstate 90 in Washington between mile markers 285 and 299. Interstate 90 in Idaho between mile markers 0 and 3. U.S. Highway 95 in Idaho between mile markers 404 and 421. U.S. Highway 195 in Washington between mile markers 66 and 86. visibilities will drop quickly to less than a half mile in this squall. Use extra caution if you must travel into or through this dangerous snow squall. Rapid changes in visibility and potentially slick roads are likely to lead to accidents. Consider delaying travel until the squall passes your location. A rapid drop in temperatures will lead to the rapid formation of black ice on area roadways. Black ice is nearly impossible to see and roadways may appear wet. Please use extreme caution, especially on bridges, overpasses and around curves. Allow plenty of stopping distance and avoid braking suddenly.
This alert is in effect until 6:45 p.m.
Snow squalls: Risks, differences, and safety seasures
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.
What is the difference between a snow squall and a snowstorm?
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
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 NWS, which encompass the following key actions:
Avoid or delay travel: If a snow squall warning is issued for your vicinity, it’s advisable to postpone or refrain from motor travel until the squall has passed through your area. Highways and roads are particularly hazardous during snow squalls.
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 a winter weather, visit the NWS 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 NWS recommendations can significantly mitigate risks. By understanding, preparing, and staying vigilant, individuals can navigate these winter hazards with greater confidence and security.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots Washington
This story was originally published January 7, 2026 at 6:18 PM.
