Icy Freeways Close Due To Accidents, Snow Squalls Reduce Visibility

DETROIT (WWJ) - A special weather statement about snow squalls has just been issued for the entire metro Detroit region.

The National Weather Service said snow squalls Saturday could be so heavy at times that visibility drops to zero. Winds around 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph are expected.

Along with reduced visibility, the combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds could result in whiteout conditions. Motorists are urged to use caution and account for the driving conditions by allowing extra time.

Police have been responding to dozens of accidents since about 6 a.m. Saturday. Romulus police are investigating a fatal accident that occurred along Merriman Road near I-94. Details weren't available, however there were a number of spinout accidents in the area at the time of the crash.

Throughout the morning at one time or another, police shut down parts of I-696, I-275, I-75 I-96 and M-53, the Van Dyke Freeway. I-94 was closed in Harper Woods, Detroit and near Ann Arbor at various times. Blowing and drifting snow left many roads snow-covered and slick. Black ice also played a part in many crashes.

The Monroe County Road Commission put out an advisory early Saturday that said roads were hazardous and some roads could become impassable due to blowing and drifting of snow in the rural areas. The Wayne County Roads Division advised drivers to slow down and use extra caution on bridges, intersections, ramps and overpasses.

For the latest from the roads, stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 during Traffic and Weather on the 8s, 24-hours a day. To check for recent traffic incidents now, click here.