I-64, Virginia – A fast-moving snow squall is creating hazardous travel conditions across eastern Virginia early Saturday morning.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Wakefield, a snow squall continues moving southeast toward Hampton Roads, the Middle Peninsula, and the Lower Eastern Shore as of 5:20 a.m. Saturday. The squall is capable of producing a brief but intense burst of heavy snow, rapidly reducing visibility and creating dangerous roadway conditions.
Wind gusts of 30 to 35 miles per hour are possible, which can cause blowing snow and sudden whiteout conditions. Roads may quickly become snow-covered, with up to a half inch of snow accumulating in a short period of time. Even brief accumulation can lead to slick pavement and loss of traction.
Major travel corridors including Interstate 64, Interstate 95, Interstate 664, U.S. Route 17, and U.S. Route 13 may be impacted as the squall moves through. Bridges, overpasses, and exposed roadways are especially vulnerable due to rapid freezing and wind exposure.
The National Weather Service stresses that snow squalls differ from typical winter storms because of their sudden onset and short duration. Conditions can deteriorate from clear to hazardous in minutes, catching drivers off guard during early morning travel.
Motorists are urged to use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. Reducing speed, increasing following distance, and avoiding abrupt braking can help reduce the risk of crashes. Drivers should also be prepared for rapidly changing visibility.
For early-morning commuters, delivery drivers, and emergency responders, the squall may cause brief but significant travel disruptions before conditions improve later in the morning as the system exits the region.
Residents are encouraged to monitor real-time road conditions and additional updates from the National Weather Service as the snow squall continues moving southeast.
