Albany, NY – A fast-moving arctic front sweeping across the Northeast on Thursday is expected to trigger hazardous snow squalls across several states, with the highest risk stretching from Upstate New York through Vermont and into New Hampshire, according to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC).
Forecasters warn the setup could produce rapid whiteout conditions, sudden drops in visibility, and flash-freeze impacts on roads across portions of New England during the morning through the afternoon hours. The WPC graphic shows the core risk area focused over central and northern New York, much of Vermont, and western/central New Hampshire, where probabilities exceed 60% for squall development.
According to the WPC, snow squalls differ from typical snow showers due to their speed and intensity. “Snow squalls can create icy roads very quickly, which can be hazardous to motorists,” officials said. Gusty winds accompanying the front will push blowing snow across highways, worsening visibility concerns.
Timing
The front is expected to drop southeast from early morning through mid-afternoon Thursday, affecting key travel corridors across the interior Northeast, including I-81, I-87, I-89, I-91, and portions of I-93. Brief but intense bursts of snowfall may create dangerous, quickly changing conditions.
What Drivers Should Know
Experts warn that snow squalls can be more dangerous than typical winter storms due to their sudden nature. If drivers encounter a squall, they should slow down immediately, turn on headlights, avoid slamming brakes, and pull off the road only if it is safe to do so.
Residents across New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and western Maine should monitor updated forecasts as Thursday approaches.
