Tioga County, PA – Drivers across central Tioga County faced dangerous conditions Thursday morning as a fast-moving snow squall swept through the area, causing near-zero visibility and rapidly deteriorating road conditions within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service office in State College, a Snow Squall Warning was issued at 9 a.m. Thursday, January 22, and remained in effect until 9:45 a.m. The snow squall was observed near Wellsboro and was moving east at approximately 50 mph, producing intense snowfall and strong wind gusts.
Meteorologists warned that brief but powerful bursts of heavy snow, combined with gusty winds exceeding 35 mph, could reduce visibility to less than one-quarter mile almost instantly. These conditions significantly increase the risk of crashes, especially on highways where drivers may be unable to slow down safely.
The warning specifically impacted Route 6 from Ansonia to the Bradford County line and Route 15 from Blossburg to Tioga, both major travel corridors in the region. Communities affected included Mansfield, Wellsboro, Morris, Blossburg, Covington, Arnot, Millerton, Tioga, Roseville, Leonard Harrison State Park, and Mansfield University.
The National Weather Service urged residents to avoid or delay travel until the snow squall passed. Officials emphasized that there is no safe place to stop on a highway during a snow squall, as visibility and traction can vanish without warning, leading to chain-reaction crashes.
Drivers already on the road were advised to reduce speed cautiously, increase following distance, and exit highways if possible before conditions rapidly worsen.
Snow squalls are brief but extremely dangerous winter weather events, often catching motorists off guard despite lasting only minutes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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