There’s a snow squall warning in Centre County through mid-afternoon Monday
Centre County is under a snow squall warning until 3 p.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service in State College.
A snow squall is an intense but short-lived burst of heavy snowfall, according to NWS; it can create extremely poor visibility and is often accompanied by gusty winds.
Motorists should expect hazardous road conditions.
“Consider avoiding or delaying travel until the snow squall passes your location. If you must travel, use extra caution and allow extra time. Rapid changes in visibility and slick road conditions may lead to accidents,” the NWS alert states.
The NWS warning is in effect for Centre County and locations impacted include State College, Bellefonte, Philipsburg, Park Forest Village, Woodward, Boalsburg, Pleasant Gap, Stormstown and Lemont.
The alert notes that for those driving on Interstate 80, this includes areas between the Milesburg and Mile Run exits, specifically between mile markers 160 and 162, and near mile marker 196, and Interstate 99 from mile markers 45 to 85.
“There is no safe place on a highway when a snow squall hits. Visibility and traction are immediately lost in whiteout conditions, making it difficult or impossible to slow down and avoid stopped vehicles,” the alert states.
“Wet roadways will quickly freeze. Black ice will cause roads, bridges and overpasses to become slick and dangerous. Slow down and be prepared for sudden loss of traction.”
A snow squall is thought to be responsible for an Interstate 81 collision involving dozens of vehicles in Schuylkill County on Monday morning, the Associated Press reported.
