PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Say it ain't snow! Winter is right around the corner and it's time to start talking about winter weather safety.
That's the goal of the National Weather Service (NWS) State College office, which has marked this week as Snow Squall Awareness Week.
A snow squall is a brief but intense period of heavy snow, strong winds, and whiteout conditions. They can also cause a flash freeze on highways.
If you're at home during a snow squall, you're safe from any of its impacts. However, those traveling during a snow squall are at risk of accidents, injuries, or even death because of the quick deterioration of conditions.
As we enter the winter months, the best way to stay ahead of any inclement weather is to keep an eye on the forecast. Our computer models and forecasting have improved so that we're able to give you a day or two heads up when conditions look favorable for a snow squall to occur. If you know that on a given day there's a good chance for a snow squall, you should avoid travel accordingly.
If you are traveling when a Snow Squall Warning is issued, Warning Coordination Meteorologist Jonathan Guseman from the NWS says to stay calm, while taking action.
"If you're driving along at high speeds, slowly reduce your speed. Don't break hard. You don't want to make any sudden movements," he told FOX43. "Especially if you start to get into the heavier snow in the squall itself, put your blinkers on and make yourself as visible as you can to the folks around you. And make sure you're not making any sudden movements and shifts. And if you can safely exit, that's the best thing you can do is get off of the highway."
Guseman also says that keeping an emergency kit in your car is important in case you get stuck on the highway during or after a squall. This kit can include things like snacks, water, a blanket, or anything else to stay warm and safe until help arrives.
Make sure you stay tuned to the forecast all winter long. The FOX43 WeatherSmart Team will keep you updated should any issues appear in the forecast ahead.