The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple warnings for snow squalls in "rapidly changing" and hazardous travel conditions affecting parts of New York, including the Capital District and western Mohawk Valley.
Why It Matters
Snow squalls, though brief, are intense winter weather phenomena characterized by sudden whiteout conditions, icy roads, and gusty winds. Unlike prolonged snowstorms, these squalls can develop within minutes, creating hazardous conditions for drivers.
Warning over Driving Conditions
The snow squall warnings and associated advisories serve as critical alerts for travelers and residents in affected areas. Rapidly changing conditions can lead to dangerous road situations, including reduced visibility and icy surfaces. Areas such as Albany, Schenectady, and Saratoga are among the areas directly impacted by the warnings, with specific highways flagged for potential hazards.
What to Know
The NWS issued a Special Weather Statement early Monday morning warning of scattered snow showers and squalls expected to continue into Tuesday. Areas under advisories include Southern Herkimer, Montgomery, and Eastern Albany counties. Affected highways include sections of Interstates 88, 90, and 890, among others.
Arctic Cold Front Sweeping Across Region
The snow squalls are expected to coincide with an arctic cold front sweeping across the region. Temperatures could briefly rise to the mid-30s before plummeting below freezing, heightening the risk of flash freezes on roadways. Northern Herkimer County could see snow totals of up to 10 inches due to persistent lake effect snow.
In addition, the warnings noted the historical dangers associated with these intense bursts of winter weather, which often last less than an hour but can result in significant disruption.
What People Are Saying
The National Weather Service said via SILive.com: "At 2:48 p.m., a snow squall was over Pattersonville-Rotterdam Junction … moving east at 25 MPH."
The service urged drivers to "use extra caution if you must travel into or through this squall. Rapid changes in visibility and potentially slick roads may lead to accidents".
What's Next
Snow showers are expected to fizzle by late evening in most areas, but localized lake effect snow bands could persist into in the Adirondacks. Winds gusting up to 30 mph and cold air temperatures in the 20s will continue to create a wintry environment, with quieter conditions anticipated by midweek.
Travelers are urged to check for updates and adhere to weather advisories to ensure safety during this period of rapidly shifting conditions.
In addition, travelers are urged to reduce speed, use headlights, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles during snow squalls to prevent accidents.
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