Snow squalls – the quick and wintry traffic disruptor. We’re going over what snow squalls entail and how to practice safe navigation if you are caught in one.

Snow squalls are quick-hitters, and they can come with or without a winter storm event, making them seem unexpected if you are not used to their sudden arrival. Snow squalls only last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, making them very different from a snowstorm, which can last several hours to even days.

Snow squalls can drop moderate to heavy snowfall, quickly lowering visibility to white-out conditions and creating a dangerous travel environment.

Gusty surface winds and a moisture source create a snow squall, which can happen anywhere. The Great Lakes often see snow squalls before the lakes freeze. As cold winds pass over the lake, they pick up the moisture and drop it as snow.

You can be ready for snow events throughout the winter by staying up to date with your local forecast and heeding watches and warnings as they are issued. Awareness is key when it comes to winter driving.