Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties were under the warning.
“The warning-inducing snow squall has lessened and is moving out of the region. As a result, the snow squall warning will be lifted. The National Weather Service warns drivers to exercise caution as highways that span higher elevations and elevated routes may be covered in slush or snow.
Snow squalls: Safety protocols and prevention tips
What are snow squalls?
Strong cold fronts are frequently linked to snow squalls, which are severe winter weather conditions. Even in the absence of a significant winter storm, they can swiftly cover roads with snow and ice. Even while these squalls usually last less than an hour and only produce light snow accumulation, their restricted visibility, strong winds, and quickly falling temperatures can make them dangerous. Unfortunately, in the past, these circumstances have played a role in catastrophic and occasionally fatal road accidents.
Understanding snow squalls vs. Snowstorms
The length of the event distinguishes a snowstorm from a snow squall. Typically lasting between 30 and 60 minutes, snow squalls are incredibly powerful. Days or even hours may pass during a snowfall.
Snow squall warnings
Like warnings for tornadoes or severe thunderstorms, snow squalls are quickly issued for specific locations. They provide vital, locally relevant information that can save lives. If there is a snow squall warning in your location, it is recommended to wait until the squall passes before driving.
Actions to take
When a snow squall warning is issued, people should heed the weather service’s instructions, which include the following crucial steps:
Avoid or postpone travel: If your area is under a snow squall warning, stay indoors or wait for the squall to pass through before driving. During a snowstorm, there is absolutely nowhere safe to drive on the roadway.
Decrease speed and improve visibility: If you are already traveling and won’t be able to get off the road in time, slow down and activate your headlights and hazard lights.
Keep a safe distance by giving the automobile in front of you plenty of space.
Steer clear of sudden braking: It’s also best to avoid applying the brakes too hard. This could lead to a loss of vehicle control and raise the possibility of a chain reaction collision on slick or icy roads.
Winter weather safety advice: Go to the weather service’s Winter Weather Safety page for detailed instructions on how to keep safe before, during, and after experiencing winter weather. This website provides helpful advice and safety measures to assist you successfully deal with the difficulties presented by winter weather.
Get your car ready:Make sure your car is winter-ready before you hit the road this winter by checking the tires, brakes, lights, and making sure all the fluids are at the right levels. A well-maintained car can handle the rigors of winter roads more easily.
Essentials for your car’s emergency kit: Always keep a first-aid kit, blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and other essentials in your car’s emergency kit. For better tire traction, add jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, ice scraper, a map, a car cell phone charger, and cat litter or sand. Should you experience an emergency or unplanned breakdown while traveling, these supplies can be quite helpful.
In conclusion, putting one’s own safety first and following the weather service’s advice can greatly reduce dangers when a snow squall warning is in effect. People can travel through these winter dangers with more assurance and security if they are aware of them, plan beforehand, and remain alert.
United Robots offers a service called Advance Local Weather Alerts that gathers the most recent information from the National Weather Service using machine learning.
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