A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Tuesday at 4:26 p.m. for a snow squall until 5:15 p.m. for Jackson County below 9,000 feet, West Jackson and West Grand counties above 9,000 feet, South and East Jackson/Larimer/North and Northeast Grand/Northwest Boulder counties above 9,000 feet, Larimer and Boulder counties between 6,000 and 9,000 Feet and Larimer County below 6,000 feet/Northwest Weld County.
“At 4:26 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a snow squall along a line from 8 miles east of Virginia Dale to 8 miles west of Coalmont, or 29 miles north of Fort Collins, moving east at 45 mph,” says the NWS.
Locations impacted by the alert include Trail Ridge, Walden, Kinikinik, Stove Prairie, Pennock Pass, Cameron Pass, Glendevey, Rustic, Pingree Park, Four Corners, Red Feather Lakes, Gould, Cherokee Park, Mishawaka, Rand, Poudre Park, Virginia Dale, Livermore, Coalmont and Natural Fort. This includes Interstate 25 between mile markers 285 and 297, or close to the Wyoming border.
The NWS adds, “A rapid drop in temperatures will lead to the rapid formation of slick or icy roadways in some areas. Please use extreme caution, especially on bridges, overpasses and around curves. Allow plenty of stopping distance and avoid braking suddenly. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly in winter weather situations. Be prepared for snow or ice covered roads. Slow down and allow extra time when traveling.”
Snow squalls: Risks, differences, and safety seasures
What are snow squalls?
Snow squalls are brief but intense winter weather events often linked to strong cold fronts. They can cause sudden white-out conditions and icy roads within minutes, even if there’s no major winter storm happening. While they usually last less than an hour and might only result in minor snow accumulation, they pose significant risks to drivers due to reduced visibility, gusty winds, and rapidly falling temperatures. These conditions have historically led to deadly traffic accidents.
Understanding snow squalls vs. snowstorms
The difference between a snow squall and a snowstorm is the duration of the event. Snow squalls are usually very short-lived (on the order of 30-60 minutes) and extremely intense. A snowstorm could last for several hours or even days.
Snow squall warnings
Snow squall warnings are short-fused and focused on distinct areas (like tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings). These warnings provide critical, highly localized life-saving information. If a snow squall warning is issued for your area, avoid or delay motor travel until the squall passes through your location.
Actions to take
In response to a snow squall warning, individuals should follow the guidelines provided by the NWS, which encompass the following key actions:
Avoid or delay travel: If a snow squall warning is issued for your area, avoid or delay motor travel until the squall passes through your location. There truly is no safe place on the highway during a snow squall.
Reduce speed and increase visibility: If you are already in transit and cannot exit the road in time, reduce your speed, turn on your headlights and hazard lights.
Maintain safe distance: Allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you.
Avoid abrupt braking: In slippery and icy conditions, sudden braking can lead to loss of vehicle control. It’s safer to slow down gradually to minimize the risk of skidding or causing a chain reaction crash.
Winter weather safety tips: For comprehensive guidelines on how to stay safe before, during, and after encountering winter weather conditions, visit the NWS Winter Weather Safety page. This resource offers valuable insights and precautions to help you navigate the challenges posed by winter weather effectively.
Prepare your vehicle: Prior to traveling, take steps to prepare your vehicle for winter conditions by inspecting tires, brakes, and lights, and confirming all fluids are at appropriate levels. A properly cared-for vehicle is more prepared to tackle the obstacles of winter driving.
Emergency kit essentials: Always have a well-prepared emergency kit in your vehicle containing crucial supplies like blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Additionally, include jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, an ice scraper, a car cell phone charger, a map, and cat litter or sand for improved tire traction. These items can be invaluable should you encounter an unexpected breakdown or emergency while on the road.
In conclusion, when faced with a snow squall warning, prioritizing personal safety and adhering to the NWS recommendations can significantly mitigate risks. By understanding, preparing, and staying vigilant, individuals can navigate these winter hazards with greater confidence and security.
Source: The National Weather Service