What is a snow squall

Snow squalls are sudden, intense snowfall events accompaniedblowing snow and strong winds. They are localized in time or location and can be more dangerous than blizzards due to their rapid onset and extreme conditions. There are two primary types of snow squalls: lake effect and frontal.

Lake Effect Snow Squall:

• Lake effect snow occurs when cold air, often originating from Canada, moves across the open waters of the Great Lakes. As the cold air passes over the unfrozen and relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes, warmth and moisture are transferred into the lowest portion of the atmosphere.
• This phenomenon leads to convective clouds that grow into narrow bands producing heavy snowfall, sometimes at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour or more. Wind direction plays a crucial role in determining where lake effect snow will fall.
• Lake effect snow can create narrow corridors of heavy snowfall known as snowbelts, impacting regions downwind of the Great Lakes. The physical geography of the land and water, along with other factors, influences the forecasting of lake effect snow.

Frontal Snow Squall:

• Snow squalls are sudden, moderately heavy snowfalls accompaniedblowing snow and strong, gusty winds. They are localized in time or location and can be more dangerous than blizzards due to their sudden onset and reduced visibility.
• There are two primary types of snow squalls: lake effect and frontal. Lake-effect snow squalls occur when arctic air moves over large expanses of warmer open waters, leading to convective clouds that produce heavy snowfall.
• Snow squalls pose significant dangers to motorists, airplanes, and travelers due to slippery conditions, abrupt loss of visibility causing whiteouts, and sudden changes in weather conditions. They can result in multiple-vehicle collisions and road closures.

Snow squalls pose significant dangers on the roads, leading to reduced visibility, icy conditions, and rapid temperature drops. They can cause high-speed wrecks, pile-ups, injuries, and fatalities. Snow squall warnings are issuedthe National Weather Service to alert residents of imminent squalls in their area, similar to tornado or thunderstorm warnings.During a snow squall warning, it is crucial to avoid or delay travel if possible. If caught in a snow squall while driving, reduce speed, turn on headlights and hazard lights, maintain distance from other vehicles, and avoid sudden braking to prevent accidents. Snow squalls are short-lived but extremely intense weather events that require caution and preparedness when traveling during winter months.Remember, there is no safe place on the highway during a snow squall; therefore, staying informed about weather alerts and road conditions is essential for safety during these hazardous weather phenomena.