Yesterday (December 4th) a potent cold front swept through Minnesota, triggering snow squall warnings across the Twin Cities and northwestern regions. These sudden, intense bursts of snow, accompanied by strong winds, led to rapid drops in visibility and hazardous travel conditions.
Impact on Communities:
- Power Outages: The combination of heavy, wet snow and strong winds downed trees and power lines, causing widespread power outages. In the Twin Cities metro area, over 60,000 Xcel Energy customers experienced outages, and over 2,000 customers in Fergus Falls lost power yesterday, but that was due to an accident made by a contractor.
- School Closures: Numerous school districts across the state canceled classes or released students early due to deteriorating road conditions and safety concerns.
- Traffic Disruptions: The sudden onset of snow storms led to multiple accidents and significant traffic delays on major highways, as drivers contended with whiteout conditions and slick roads.
Understanding Snow Squalls:
Snow squalls are brief, intense snow showers accompanied by strong, gusty winds. They can produce whiteout conditions and lead to rapid accumulations of snow on roadways, making travel extremely dangerous. Unlike more prolonged winter storms, snow squalls are sudden and often unexpected, which can catch motorists off guard.
Safety Precautions During Snow Squalls:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and be alert for snow squall warnings, which are typically issued for short durations and specific areas.
- Avoid Travel: If a snow squall warning is issued, delay travel if possible. If already on the road, consider exiting highways safely to wait out the squall.
- Drive Cautiously: If you must drive, reduce speed, increase the following distance, and use headlights to improve visibility. Be prepared for sudden changes in road conditions.
- Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including items like a flashlight, warm clothing, blankets, and non-perishable food.
Frequency in Minnesota:
While Minnesota is accustomed to various winter weather events, snow squalls are relatively rare. They are more common in areas near large bodies of water, such as the Great Lakes, where cold air moves over warmer waters, creating favorable conditions for squalls. However, under certain atmospheric conditions, Minnesota can experience these sudden snow events.