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PA Faces Dangerous Snow Squalls: Exit Now!
20 Jan
Summary
- Over one million Pennsylvanians urged to avoid travel due to snow squalls.
- Snow squalls bring sudden whiteout conditions and icy roads rapidly.
- Highways like I-70, I-80, and PA Turnpike impacted by dangerous conditions.
The National Weather Service issued urgent travel advisories for over one million people across Pennsylvania on Monday afternoon as dangerous snow squalls rapidly approached. These sudden bursts of heavy snow, accompanied by gusty winds exceeding 35 mph, create whiteout conditions and icy roads almost instantaneously, according to NOAA.
The warnings advised residents to delay travel or immediately exit highways like Interstate 70, 80, 79, 376, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Meteorologists explained that these "intense" snow squalls are often triggered by passing cold fronts. While they typically last less than an hour and may produce minor accumulations, the combination of reduced visibility and slick surfaces poses a significant risk.
Authorities stressed that there is no safe place on a highway during a snow squall due to the immediate loss of visibility and traction. The immediate threat was expected to diminish within the hour, but residents were advised to monitor local forecasts for potential future warnings.
