Northeast U.S. — Sudden snow squalls could rapidly reduce visibility and create dangerous travel conditions across the Northeast Thursday and Friday.
According to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center, scattered snow squalls are expected to develop behind a strong cold front moving across the region on Thursday, with another round possible on Friday. The highest risk spans from Upstate New York through much of New England, including interior portions of Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine.
Snow squalls differ from typical snow showers by producing intense bursts of heavy snow, strong gusty winds, and abrupt drops in visibility. These conditions can develop and dissipate quickly, often giving motorists little time to react. Near-zero visibility and rapidly snow-covered roadways are possible during the strongest squalls.
Forecasters indicated the first round may begin Thursday morning across Upstate New York before shifting east into New England. A second round is expected Friday afternoon, moving from west to east across the region. Not all locations will see multiple squalls, but some areas could experience more than one brief but hazardous episode.
The Weather Prediction Center warned that driving conditions can change “extremely fast” during snow squalls, increasing the risk of multi-vehicle crashes, especially on highways and during peak travel times. Commuters, students, and young workers traveling during morning or afternoon drive times may be particularly impacted.
The National Weather Service advises drivers who encounter a snow squall to slow down immediately, turn on headlights and hazard lights, and avoid sudden braking. If conditions become unsafe, motorists are urged to exit the roadway when possible.
Travelers across the Northeast are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and road conditions closely through Friday, as exact timing and location of snow squalls may shift.
