Whiteout Warning! Dangerous Snow Squalls to Slam Swanton and Major Highways This Morning

If you’re heading out this morning, think twice! A dangerous snow squall warning has been issued for Swanton and major highways, including I-89 and US-7. Sudden bursts of heavy snowfall and whiteout conditions could make driving nearly impossible, creating a serious risk for accidents. The warning, issued by the National Weather Service, is in effect until 5:45 AM EST and could turn a routine morning commute into a life-threatening situation.

What’s Happening?

Snow squalls are not just another winter inconvenience—they can be just as dangerous as a full-scale blizzard but develop much faster. These squalls bring:

• Blinding Snowfall: Visibility could drop to near zero in seconds, making driving extremely hazardous.
• Rapid Snow Accumulation: Roads will become slick and snow-covered almost instantly.
• Powerful Winds: Gusts will blow snow around, making it even harder to see and increasing the risk of highway pileups.

Who is Affected?

The areas most at risk include:

• Interstate 89 (I-89), especially near Swanton
• U.S. Route 7 (US-7), with particularly dangerous conditions near Swanton
• Surrounding communities in northern Vermont

If you’re traveling in these areas, be prepared for sudden, extreme weather changes.

How to Stay Safe

Avoid Travel If Possible: If you don’t have to be on the road, stay home until conditions improve. Squalls move quickly, but the dangers they leave behind—like icy roads—can last much longer.

Slow Down Immediately: If you find yourself caught in a squall, drop your speed and drive with extreme caution. Black ice could form quickly, making it easy to lose control.

Turn on Your Headlights: Make sure your lights are on so other drivers can see you, even if it seems like daytime.

Increase Following Distance: Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and others. Stopping on icy roads takes far longer than usual.

Stay Updated: Conditions can change within minutes, so keep checking weather alerts and road updates before heading out.

What’s Next?

While the immediate squall threat is expected to diminish after 5:45 AM, roads will likely remain icy and hazardous for hours. Even after the snowfall ends, winds may continue blowing snow across roadways, keeping visibility low.

Winter in Vermont is nothing new, but snow squalls are especially dangerous because they strike so suddenly. Many drivers assume they can push through a little snow—until they find themselves in a whiteout with zero visibility and no time to react.

If you don’t absolutely have to travel this morning, stay inside and wait this one out. One wrong move on a slick highway could turn deadly.