This Rare Winter Weather Alert Was Issued Across Minnesota Wednesday

Undated (KROC-AM News)- A relatively new and rare weather warning was issued across Minnesota on Wednesday. 

See Also: Strong Wind Gusts Flip Semi Truck in Southeast Minnesota

Earlier this year, the National Weather Service announced a change in terminology when it comes to dangerously cold temperatures. 

Windchill will now be referred to as extreme cold and weather officials will issue extreme cold watches, advisories and warnings if conditions warrant. 

Read More: Minnesotans Will No Longer Need to Brace for Windchill Alerts 

A few years ago, the weather service also added a new winter weather alert for snow squalls. 

The National Weather Service defines a snow squall as a quick burst of sudden whiteout conditions and cold temperatures that can lead to the formation of icy roads. 

Although the squalls produce minor snow accumulations, the rapid change in conditions can create a dangerous situation for anyone out on the roads. 

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Snow Squalls Trigger Multiple Warnings, Lead to Over 100 Crashes & Fatality in Minnesota

On Wednesday the National Weather Service issued multiple Snow Squall Warnings across Minnesota. 

They were issued late Wednesday morning and early Wednesday afternoon in northwest Minnesota, west-central Minnesota and in the Twin Cities metro. 

The squalls prompted the Minnesota Department of Transportation to issue a No Travel Advisory in northwestern Minnesota on Wednesday. 

The State Patrol reported the sudden burst of whiteout conditions prompted by the squall caused 108 crashes across the state. One of the crashes was fatal and 12 caused injuries. 

There were also 57 vehicles that went off the road, four spin outs and three jackknifed semis. The traffic incidents on the state's roads happened between midnight and 4 p.m. on Wednesday.