Gray, ME – As Winter Weather Preparedness Week continues across Maine, the National Weather Service is issuing a strong reminder about one of the region’s most dangerous cold-season threats: snow squalls. These fast-forming bursts of snow, wind and plummeting temperatures can turn roads treacherous within minutes, often with little advance warning.
According to the National Weather Service Gray office, snow squalls are known for their rapid onset and equally sudden departure, typically lasting less than an hour. While total snowfall is usually minimal—often an inch or less—the impact can be severe due to whiteout visibility, gusty winds and a rapid drop in pavement temperatures.
NWS officials note that snow squalls have a documented history of causing deadly traffic crashes, especially when drivers encounter them at highway speeds. The agency stresses that “the last place you want to be during a snow squall is on the road.”
If a Snow Squall Warning is issued, the NWS advises:
- Delay travel if possible
- Slow down immediately if already on the road
- Turn on low-beam headlights and hazard lights
- Pull over safely and remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened
- Never exit your vehicle to stand near the roadway
- If you must exit in an emergency, move far from traffic to avoid being struck
Officials emphasize that squalls can appear suddenly, reduce visibility to near-zero, and create icy road conditions that drivers may not anticipate. Safety, they say, depends on reacting quickly and not attempting to “push through” dangerous conditions.
The NWS urges drivers to review winter travel plans, monitor forecasts frequently and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
