Most of the East Coast of the United States has experienced a weekend with thermal sensations below freezing point that in the northern area was accompanied by snow, which when it falls in the form of a ‘squall’ (snow squall, in English ) poses dangerous conditions for drivers.
What is a snow ‘squall’?
The biggest risk is that they reduce visibility in the areas they pass through from one moment to the next. Furthermore, after their passage they freeze the streets and highways in a matter of minutes, creating conditions for vehicle accidents to occur.
They normally occur when strong cold fronts are generated that bring winds from the Arctic.
Recommendation from authorities: If you will pass through an area where there will be a snow squall, consider taking an alternate route or traveling at another time. If you find yourself in one, slow down and turn on your lights.
“A road is not a safe place during a snow squall event,” the NWS says.
The NWS released two photos that were taken 4 minutes apart to demonstrate the effect a snow squall can have on a road.
The NWS released two photos that were taken 4 minutes apart to demonstrate the effect a snow squall can have on a road.
Credit: NWS.
Areas in New York affected by ‘snow squalls’
The NWS indicated this Sunday, January 14, that snow squalls are moving quickly and will move this afternoon.
“Highest chance of having impactful snow flurries in the northern and interior sections. These will be located! Only light rain and snow may occur in some areas, especially closer to the coast,” the NWS said on the X social network.
The map below shows the times at which snow flurries are expected to pass through the area.
- Snow squalls will last between 15 and 30 minutes.
- Visibility will be interrupted for half a mile to a quarter of a mile.
- The areas most affected by snow squalls will be in the north and in the interior of the state.
The map shows what time each region of the state will be experiencing snow flurries.
Credit: NWS.
Affected areas in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
The NWS warned that ‘snow squalls’ will bring a special threat to the northwest of I-95.
“If a blizzard warning is issued for your area, delay travel. If you are driving, find a place to safely exit the road,” the NWS said.
The map below shows the times these conditions will affect the area.
The map shows what time each region of the state will be experiencing snow flurries.
Credit: NWS.
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Winter tires If your car or SUV has these types of tires, you will no longer need to install chains. Winter tires have to be placed on both axles of the car. In the case of a front-wheel drive car, including them only on the front axle will cause the rear axle to skid. If you only put winter tires on a rear-wheel drive car, the front axle will become completely unbalanced and lose direction when cornering.
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