Charleston, WV – The National Weather Service is warning drivers across the Ohio Valley — including Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia — to prepare for snow squalls, which are brief but intense bursts of snow and wind capable of creating whiteout conditions and icy roads almost instantly.
While snow squalls usually drop less than two inches of snow, they can be extremely dangerous due to rapidly falling visibility and flash freezes that make roads slick. These short-lived but high-impact events have been linked to major highway accidents and pileups, especially on I-64, I-70, I-71, and I-75.
What Drivers Should Know:
- Visibility can drop to near zero within moments.
- Roads can become icy in seconds, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
- If you receive a Snow Squall Warning, delay travel or exit highways safely until it passes.
- Slow down, turn on headlights, and avoid sudden braking or lane changes.
The Snow Squall Warning, issued by the NWS, functions much like a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning — but for short, fast-moving winter events that create life-threatening travel hazards. Warnings typically last 30 to 60 minutes and cover specific road corridors.
Officials urge motorists to stay alert for quick-changing weather this winter, particularly during cold frontal passages when snow squalls are most likely.
For real-time alerts, visit weather.gov or follow your local NWS offices in Charleston, Louisville, and Wilmington for winter safety information and travel advisories.
