Snow Squall Warning Issued for Pennsylvania Counties Amid Dangerous Conditions

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — The National Weather Service issued a snow squall warning on Saturday at 11:38 a.m. for Cambria and Somerset counties, effective until 12:30 p.m. The warning highlights a dangerous snow squall located along a line stretching from Belsano to Perryopolis, moving southeast at 30 mph, which includes a portion of The Pennsylvania Turnpike between mile markers 100 and 115.

Locations affected by the warning are Acosta, Salix-Beauty Line Park, Mundys Corner, Belmont, Johnstown, Elim, Central City, Seven Springs, Friedens, Scalp Level, Flight 93 National Memorial, and New Centerville.

The weather service cautions, “Travel will become difficult and potentially dangerous within minutes. Wet roadways will quickly freeze. Black ice will cause roads, bridges, and overpasses to become slick and dangerous.” Motorists are advised to slow down and be prepared for a sudden loss of traction.

Hazards associated with the snow squall include flash freezes on roads, intense bursts of heavy snow, gusty winds resulting in blowing snow, and visibility dropping to less than one-quarter mile with wind gusts exceeding 35 mph.

According to the National Weather Service, snow squalls are brief but intense winter weather events commonly linked to powerful cold fronts. Although they typically last less than an hour and produce limited snow accumulation, the conditions can lead to severe traffic accidents due to sudden drops in visibility, strong winds, and rapidly decreasing temperatures.

“A snow squall can create white-out conditions in a matter of minutes, adding to the danger for drivers,” the service explained. The distinction between a snow squall and a snowstorm lies in their intensity and duration. Snow squalls last around 30 to 60 minutes, whereas snowstorms can extend over several hours or even days.

When a snow squall warning is issued, individuals should be proactive and consider the following recommendations to ensure safety:

Avoid or delay travel: If you receive a snow squall warning, it’s wise to postpone or refrain from driving until the warning has passed.

Reduce speed and increase visibility: If already on the road, decrease your speed and activate your headlights and hazard lights to make your vehicle more visible to others.

Maintain a safe distance: Increase the space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

Avoid abrupt braking: Sudden braking on icy roads can lead to loss of control and increase the chances of a multi-vehicle accident.

For additional winter weather safety tips, visit the National Weather Service’s Winter Weather Safety page, which offers valuable guidance for navigating winter conditions.

Prepare your vehicle: Before venturing out this winter, ensure your vehicle is equipped for the season. Inspect tires, brakes, and lights, and verify that fluid levels are adequate.

Emergency kit essentials: Always have an emergency kit in your vehicle with necessary supplies, including blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Other critical items include jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, an ice scraper, a car phone charger, a map, and cat litter or sand for improving tire traction.

Taking these safety measures seriously during a snow squall warning can significantly reduce risk on the roads. By remaining vigilant and following the recommendations of the weather service, individuals can navigate winter hazards more confidently.