What exactly is a snow squall?

Snow squalls are brief, yet intense bursts of snow and wind that are extremely dangerous to drivers.

Is a snow squall worse than a blizzard?

Blizzards are dangerous winter storms that are a combination of blowing snow and wind resulting in very low visibilities. While heavy snowfalls and severe cold often accompany blizzards, they are not required. Snow squalls are brief, intense snow showers accompanied by strong, gusty winds.

Why are snow squalls dangerous?

A snow squall is a brief, but intense snowfall that suddenly drops visibility and could slicken roads. This sudden change can lead to dangerous travel, including multi-vehicle accidents. This is despite rather light snow accumulations, generally less than you would expect in a winter storm warning.

How do snow squalls happen?

Squalls (more correctly known as “lake effect snow”) occur as cold air sweeps in over the ice-free Great Lakes in early winter or late fall in the wake of a major storm system. The cold, dry air “picks up” moisture from the, relatively, warm lakes, continues over the land and dumps the moisture as snow.

What do you do if you drive in a snow squall?

Slow down, increase following distance and turn on headlights, flashers, defrosters and wipers during snow squall conditions. Reduce distractions and keep attention on the road.

How fast are winds in a snow squall?

In 1962 the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) defined that to be classified as a “squall”, the wind must increase at least 8 m/s and must attain a top speed of at least 11 m/s, lasting at least one minute in duration.

What was the worst winter in history?

1936 North American cold wave

• The 1936 North American cold wave ranks among the most intense cold waves in the recorded history of North America.
• February 1936 was the coldest February on record in the contiguous U.S., narrowly eclipsing February 1899.

What is the most snow ever recorded?

Greatest Seasonal Snowfall Total: 1,140 Inches Mount Baker in Washington state. An amazing 1,140 inches (95 feet) was recorded at Mount Baker Ski Area (4,200 feet elevation) during the July 1, 1998, to June 30, 1999, snow season.

How do you drive in a snow squall?

Leave extra time if you must travel during snow squalls as visibilities and road conditions will change rapidly. Reduce your speed and turn on headlights! In a matter of seconds unrestricted visibilities can change to near zero. Don’t slam on brakes!

What is the biggest risk of a snow squall?

The biggest risk for snow squalls is dangerous road conditions, mainly due to the rapid onset of these events. Roads can become slick as the snow rapidly accumulates; coupled with winds more than 50 mph, visibilities can drop to near zero, causing very hazardous travel conditions.

Where does the word snow squall come from?

There are different versions of the word’s origins: By one version, the word appears to be Nordic in origin, but its etymology is considered obscure. It probably has its roots in the word skvala an Old Norse word meaning literally to squeal. By another version, it is an alteration of squeal influenced by bawl.

How long does a snow squall usually last?

30-60 minutes
Snow squalls are usually very short-lived (on the order of 30-60 minutes) and extremely intense. A snow storm could last for several hours or even days.