If you live anywhere from Minnesota to New England, brace yourself—fast-moving snow squalls are about to make travel incredibly dangerous. The National Weather Service has issued a Snow Squall Warning, meaning sudden bursts of heavy snow, powerful winds, and near-zero visibility could turn roads into a complete nightmare in just minutes. This isn’t your typical snowfall. Snow squalls can hit without warning, creating dangerous whiteout conditions that make driving nearly impossible. If you have travel plans between Tuesday night and Wednesday, you need to pay attention.
What’s Coming?
- Intense, Fast-Moving Snow: One minute, the skies could be clear. The next, you’re in the middle of a total whiteout. Visibility can drop to almost nothing in seconds.
- Treacherous Roads: Flash-freezing will turn highways into ice skating rinks, leading to accidents and road closures.
- Strong Winds: Gusts up to 50 mph will blow snow around, making it even harder to see.
Who’s at Risk?
Millions of people in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are in the path of this storm. Major cities like Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Boston could see dangerous driving conditions. If you’re traveling on I-94, I-90, I-80, or I-70, be prepared for sudden whiteouts and icy roads. This could lead to dangerous pileups if drivers aren’t careful.
How to Stay Safe
- If You Must Drive, Be Extra Careful: Slow down, keep your headlights on, and avoid sudden stops or lane changes.
- Stay Home If You Can: The safest way to avoid snow squalls is not to be on the road at all.
- Have an Emergency Kit Ready: If you get stuck, you’ll want blankets, a flashlight, water, and snacks in your car. Also, make sure your phone is charged before heading out.
Final Warning
Snow squalls don’t last long—usually 30 to 60 minutes—but in that short time, they can create life-threatening travel conditions. Roads that are clear one moment can turn into complete whiteouts the next. If you don’t need to travel, it’s best to stay put. If you do have to be on the road, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for the unexpected. Stay safe out there!
