Sudden Snow Squalls a Threat for the Great Lakes and the Northeast

The next 24 to 48 hours could be a dicey affair across the Great Lakes region and the interior Northeast as the threat of snow squalls grips this part of the country. Here is a closer look at the timing and location of these anticipated wintry impacts.

Snow Squall Threat Increasing Across the Great Lakes and Portions of the Northeast

Forecasters are warning drivers in the Great Lakes and the interior Northeast to be aware of the risk of dangerous snow squalls into Thursday evening. These squalls are expected to impact over a dozen states beginning Wednesday night and lasting through late Thursday. While this region has already experienced brief and minor snow squalls this season, the upcoming event is forecast to be the most widespread and intense thus far.

A surge of Arctic air, thanks to a dip in the polar vortex, will amplify these threats in the hours ahead. Unlike classic snow events that tend to build in nature, snow squalls seemingly come out of nowhere. The sudden onset of these squalls catches motorists off guard, quickly turning highways into snow-covered skating rinks with limited visibility. Meteorologists are warning motorists to exercise extreme caution and be prepared for the chance of rapidly deteriorating conditions.