Sterling, VA – The National Weather Service is alerting Mid-Atlantic drivers across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia about the dangers of snow squalls — short-lived but intense bursts of snow and wind that can cause whiteout conditions and icy roads within minutes.
Unlike steady snow, snow squalls strike suddenly and usually last 30 to 60 minutes, often accompanied by strong gusts of wind that sharply reduce visibility. Even though snow totals are typically less than two inches, the rapid freeze-up on road surfaces can lead to multi-vehicle pileups and traffic accidents, particularly along I-81, I-70, and I-95 corridors.
What Drivers Need to Know:
- Visibility can drop to near zero in seconds during a squall.
- Roads may instantly turn slick as snow quickly accumulates and freezes.
- If a Snow Squall Warning is issued on your phone or radio, delay travel or pull off the road safely until conditions improve.
- Keep headlights on, slow down immediately, and avoid sudden stops or lane changes.
The Snow Squall Warning system, issued by the NWS, is similar to a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning but targets short-term, high-impact snow events. These warnings are designed to protect motorists from dangerous, fast-changing road conditions that have historically caused major highway pileups across the Mid-Atlantic.
Forecasters urge drivers to stay alert this winter and plan for sudden weather changes, especially when traveling through mountain passes or open interstates.
For real-time alerts and safety updates, visit weather.gov/lwx or follow your local NWS offices in Sterling, State College, or Baltimore/Washington for winter safety information.
