South Bend, IN — A rare and dangerous winter weather event made history Friday as the National Weather Service issued its first-ever Snow Squall Warning for northern Indiana, impacting the South Bend area and major interstate corridors.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana office, the warning was issued Friday around midday, December 19, after intense snow bursts caused visibility to drop below one-quarter mile along portions of Interstate 80 and Interstate 90. The warning also extended into far southern Lower Michigan.
Snow Squall Warnings became an official National Weather Service product in November 2018, but until now had never been needed for northern Indiana. Officials say the conditions met the criteria due to rapidly changing visibility, sudden whiteout conditions, and the potential for icy roads, all of which pose a serious risk to motorists.
Snow squalls differ from traditional winter storms in that they develop and intensify quickly, often with little warning. While snowfall totals may be modest, the sudden drop in visibility and flash-freezing of road surfaces can lead to multi-vehicle crashes and road closures.
During Friday’s event, drivers traveling near South Bend reported abrupt whiteout conditions as heavy snow bands moved across the region. Transportation officials urged motorists to slow down or delay travel as conditions deteriorated.
The National Weather Service emphasized that the Snow Squall Warning issued Friday is no longer active, but officials say the event highlights the growing importance of public awareness around this type of winter hazard.
Residents are encouraged to treat Snow Squall Warnings with the same urgency as severe thunderstorm warnings: slow down immediately, turn on headlights, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking.
